SYMBOLIC

And who says that everything that is complicated and incredibly technical is Progressive something? Well... There is progressive Blues and, with the term Fusion (or Jazz Rock) Progressive Jazz, Progressive Soul, Progressive Rap and Progressive Metal. But there is also Progressive Death in its Technical, Melodic and Symphonic forms. However, it is not a genre of mass consumption. Yet it would be the genre closest to the concept of Progressive Rock that is in circulation today.

Can I say, at this point, that "Symbolic" is an album that I love madly because of the musicians involved? Maybe yes. But it's not like that. Ok, it is but... The music is nothing short of wonderful. And that matters more than anything. That, then, it is not always at the level of a masterpiece is something that is noticeable but is not fundamental. I would start with Bobby Koelble, the guitarist that Chuck Schuldiner recruited for this album. For many, one of many, but not only for me, a fundamental member. Today he is a renowned and successful Jazz guitarist, teaches guitar at colleges and universities and has written a method for future blind and learning disabled and learning disabled guitarists. On drums is Gene Hoglan. Can I stop there? Nooo... I'll just tell you that he is one of my five favorite drummers. The bands he has played/plays in are: Death, Old Man's Child, Fear Factory, Strapping Young Lad, Forbidden, Dethklok, Testament, Meldrum, Tenet and I have to say that they are all extraordinary bands. His precision is unique and his power is unmatched! On bass is Steve Di Giorgio's replacement... Probably an impossible substitution to make. And, instead, Kelly Conlon does it perfectly. He was a discovery of Chuck Schuldiner and it was a fantastic discovery. Lead guitar, vocals and composition are by Chuck Schuldiner. As a singer he is perfect in the use of growl and has a superb technique. As a guitarist... He will always remain one of the 10 best guitarists in history. As a composer there is no discussion.

The music of "Symbolic"? Here and there the experts of Technical Death, Death and Melodic Death point out that there are parts that are predictable and not perfect but not tired. Right they work. However the skill of the musicians manages to make everything seem perfect and at maximum perfection. The music of "Symbolic"? Here and there the experts of Technical Death, Death and Melodic Death point out that there are parts that are predictable and not perfect but not tired. Right, they work. However, the skill of the musicians manages to make everything seem perfect and at maximum perfection. "Symbolic" is the classic album produced in Morrisound Recording in Tampa, Florida. Jim Morris and Chuck Schuldiner produce a perfect album from the point of view of production for cleanliness of sound and power as well as for feeling and emotion. The technical aspect... is superb. The melodic aspect... Ditto! and that's not easy on an album that is both Technical Death Metal and Melodic Death Metal!

In conclusion... I can tell you that in the Technical Death Metal field I don't know what other album can compete 100% with "Symbolic"? In the Melodic Death Metal field there are many albums by Swedish bands that I won't list here. But only one comes close to it 100% and it is a semi-melodic death metal album and that is "Heartwork" by Carcass. And, squeezing, squeezing... "Symbolic" is an album to know, love and take to the grave if you truly love real music!