THE DIVINE WINGS OF TRAGEDY

This album would have to be one of the best Neo-Classical, Prog-Metal releases of all time. I was introduced to Symphony X by 'The Odyssey', and although brilliant, this album I thought exceeded any other release by this band. All songs on this disc are worth having, there are no fillers, but the stand outs for me were 'Sea of Lies', 'The Accolade', 'The Divine Wings of Tragedy' and 'Candlelight Fantasia'. The production is faultless, and all musicians give an awesome display. Michael Romeo's Malmsteen-esque soloing is something to behold, and Romeo delivers everything from lightning fast single-string riffing, to de-tuned, almost brutal riffs. Michael Pinella's keyboards help to round out the overall sound, with medieval sounding piano and synth work, and he works in perfect harmony with Romeo, as they trade-off solos constantly. Thomas Miller's bass lines are highly creative, almost playing seperate melodies but somehow managing to make it all fit, and the bass intro to 'Sea of Lies', is possibly one of the best I've heard. Jason Rullo handles the shifting rhythms and time-signatures with ease, and his double- kick is as fast as any. This album is also probably the first that Russel Allen's vocals really start to become some of the best in metal. He can change from beautiful vocals to aggressive growls effortlessly, while never sacrificing intensity. The highlight is probably the vocal solo in the middle of 'The Accolade' which is simply stunning. If you haven't yet heard Symphony X, then this album is the perfect place to start, and if you already know the band, but haven't yet got this album, then what are you waiting for. Get it now! I try not to give 5 stars too often, but this album cannot be faulted from beginning to end, and should be a must for any fan of Progressive-Metal.