TEARS OF BLOOD

3 years after their somewhat promising debut, BLACK SYMPHONY return with Tears of Blood. The main man, Rick Plester has changed almost the entire band, with only the bassist Rev Jones remaining. Ric Plamondon has replaced Mike Pierce on vocals but the approach in singing has not changed dramatically.

BLACK SYMPHONY continue on similar patterns as in their debut, playing a hard-edge, aggressive at times, guitar-oriented American prog metal. Alternative rock/metal elements are still playing an important part in the band's sound, but the heavily Alice in Chains-influenced alternative prog metal has shifted towards more straight metal forms, with less melodic moments. The latter mainly depends on the less characteristic - than his predecessor - vocal performance of Plamondon. Another change appears in the somewhat reduced use of the keyboards, which only act as a background supporting instrument rather than taking the lead.

There are still some great moments that create this characteristic melodic-alternative sound for BLACK SYMPHONY and these can be found in I am Hate, Death, Into the Dark and Tears of Blood pt.2. Black Symphony pt.2 aims to duplicate the title track from the debut, but lacks the dynamic lines to support it. Direct influences from bands like Faith No More are obvious in tracks like Take me Down, proving the continuation from the band's debut. However, at the same time it is clearly seen that, although the album is well-structured with some good ideas and punchy heavy riffs, there is no real progression in terms of sound. The result very much resembles the debut and there are minor - if any - sound or approach changes.

Conclusion: Tears of Blood is a good ''alternative'' prog metal album but does not differ to the self-titled debut, which probably has slightly more original moments and should be the first reference point. Not essential, but may prove an interesting listen for fans of prog metal and alternative rock/metal (Faith No More, Alice in Chains).