THE DIVINE WINGS OF TRAGEDY

Strangely enough, I think Symphony X is an excellent "gateway" band for prospective prog. listeners. I mean "gateway" in that once you hear these guys, you'll just die to hear more. Any person who is in a band and in serious pursuit of virtuosity should definitely listen to this band. I personally love the way the sound is mixed on this album (as opposed to The Odyssey, which is mixed in a manner that provides less impact and more monotony). Guitar players especially should get this one. The songs are less epic than those on The New Mythology Suite, and this CD realy reveals the cohesion of the band and chops of the players. I especially enjoy The Accolade....that song gives me the shivers everytime I hear the movements leading out of the intro (although the chorus does bother me a little bit). Russell Allen is probably the best prog singer out there in a prog. metal or syphonic prog or whateveryahwannacallit prog. This is so b/c, unlike other prog singers (cough James LeBrie, cough) he really fits into the song, rather than making himself a nuissance to those who want to enjoy the instruments.