UNDERWORLD

Symphony X returns for their 9th studio record, Underworld. I could end the album here with this: If you like modern day Symphony X, don't hesitate to pick this up. I have some more thoughts that I wish to talk about though.

After it's typical opening track, it begins with the first real track, and its single, Nevermore. It starts off on the wrong foot with this one. The opening is powerful and the main riff is classic Michael Romeo chaos. I get lost with the lifeless chorus. It sounds too weak and dull, and it drags on for too long. It has a cool little breakdown section before the solo, which is cool. The track is pretty repetitive, not a good first single IMO. Next is the title track which suffers the OPPOSITE of Nevermore. Minus the intro ( with some very welcomed keyboards,) the song is dull, EXCEPT the chorus which is your epic, strong Symphony X Chorus. Neither of these songs are bad mind you, they would be your typical album filler, except these are your opening tracks.

Thankfully, things pick up steam, starting with, "Without You." Your power ballad-ish song, similar to "Paradise Lost." Good stuff here. Catchy riffs, melodies, chorus. It has an "Accolade" like moment where you hear an acoustic guitar, then piano, drums, bass all come in adding to it, building up to a powerful drum beat, with Jason Rullo smashing away on a crash cymbal. Very Powerful. Next is "Kiss of Fire," which is short and sweet. Unlike any SymX song, it even throws in blast beats! If you want a perfect example of aggressive modern day Symphony X, this is up there with the best. Followed by the track, "Charon," which has grown to one of my favorites. The chorus will get you hooked. "To Hell and Back" and "In My Darkest Hour," are both solid tracks, one is long and builds up, the other is more simple and a headbanger, one that will work great live. "Run With the Devil," opens with a badass Dream Theater like movement, guitars, keyboard and bass all running up and down the neck, drums powering along in the back. Good stuff. The worst track is "Swansong." It's the slowest track. I love me some slow and clean material, but this track is just rather lifeless overall.

Ending is "Legend," which is wonderful. Hooked from the first listen. Again, with a classic Symphony X chorus. Great way to end the album.

As a whole, this album ends better then it starts. I can recommend it. However, I can't help but be let down. It's more progressive then their last album, "Iconoclast," but I feel it doesnt compete with Iconoclast, and for SURE it can't touch Paradise Lost.

Good, recommended, but don't expect the return old Symphony X. I fear those days are in the horizon, and gone for good.

Best tracks: Kiss of Fire, Charon, Legend

3/5