SYMPHONY X

Symphony X

Progressive Metal

2.87 | 246 ratings

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JJLehto
Prog Reviewer

Symphony X's debut album, this self titled release displays their progressive, neo-classical, power metal sound and is fairly impressive musically but unfortunately not that good of an album.

First, the vocals are pretty bad. Russell Allen was not the vocalist on this album, and while it may be unfair to compare someone to Allen, (who is one of the best vocalists out there) Tyler is honestly just not very good. The vocals sound terribly forced often, and even when not they are flat out painful.

However, while the music is good, (sometimes great) it feels odd at times. While it is all there, it is not quite put together yet. The Symphony X sound still needs to be developed, not too surprising for a debut though. The only standout songs are "Absinthe and Rue" and "A Lesson Before Dying" which is a brilliant 12 minute prog metal epic.

The production is also not very good. While usually not an issue for me at all, here it detracts a bit from the album.

All that being said, this album has the pieces. The progressive thrashy power metal sound, Romeo's shred solos, and some real good songwriting. It is just inconsistent and undeveloped, and the vocals are pretty horrid. Only recommended for hardcore fans or those looking to complete the discog.

Two Stars

JJLehto | 2/5 | 2009-7-31

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