REEVOLUTION

One of my favorite albums of 2011 was Cynthesis' debut album 'DeEvolution'. I was instantly drawn into the fantastic story, the sci fi themes, the social commentary, and the amazing atmospheres. The Tipton brothers had really outdone themselves, especially since I wasn't a big fan of Zero Hour. Now, Cynthesis has released the second part of their trilogy. I was a little wary, but only because the first one was so perfect for me that I was afraid to be disappointed. I shouldn't have worried.

'ReEvolution' lives up to it predecessor, and surpasses it in some ways, even. The storyline of these albums is quite complex, but suffice it to say that it follows a tribe shaman whom is captured by elite corporate heads. They prop him up as a prophet so that he can unknowingly lead the masses into the corporations' plans of consumerist greed, apathy, and naivety. At the end of the first album, the shaman leaves to find others to help the cause. Now, on this second album, he returns and learns things about the corporate plans and about himself. It's a social commentary of sorts, and an excellent one at that.

This storyline plays out in a sci fi atmosphere with soaring guitar work that is rather unique and kinetic at times, and also some inventive bass work that moves things along well. Overall, however, Cynthesis' style is one of contemplative, melodic, moody prog that really captures the emotions and the moment. So, there are heavy moments, but this is no Zero Hour technically. This is beautiful, stylistic progressive rock that panders to people like me. The first album was amazing in so many ways, and this album repeats that without being a carbon copy. It also features the better vocal performance of the two, even though I was blown away by the first one. The vocalist went all out this time with some very impressive notes and sustains.

To say that I am satisfied with this follow-up would be an understatement: This album has proven to me that this Tipton trilogy will be a classic for the ages. They have capitalized on the awesome story, and have provided great melody and ambiance to draw us into their message. I love everything about these albums, and I hope everyone checks them out soon.

"ReEvolution" is the 2nd full-length studio album by US, California based Cynthesis. The album was released through Sensory Records in June 2013 and is the second part of a planned conceptual triology of albums. The first was "DeEvolution" from 2011. The lineup on "ReEvolution" comprises three former Zero Hour members (Troy Tipton, Jasun Tipton and Erik Rosvold) and Enchant drummer Sean Flanegan, which was also the lineup that recorded "DeEvolution (2011)". So minus drummer Mike Guy, this is the lineup that recorded the classic "The Towers of Avarice (2001)" album by Zero Hour.

"ReEvolution" pretty much continues where "DeEvolution (2011)" left off. Atmospheric, melodic and occasionally technical progressive metal with a sci-fi lyrical theme and a skilled and passionate lead vocalist in front. The musicianship is on a high level for all involved though, but if you're familiar with Zero Hour (and Enchant for that matter) that should come as no surprise.

"ReEvolution" is packed in a detailed and powerful sound production too and the album is overall just an album that reeks class. The songwriting is focused at lot on atmosphere and several of the tracks (especially the epic, 13:30 minutes long closing track "Release the Deity") are building slowly from atmosperic mellow openings towards epic closing climaxes. Besides "Release the Deity", which is one of the highlights of the album I'd like to mention "Persistence of Visions" as one of the standout tracks on the album.

While "ReEvolution" is not completely devoid of technical playing, it is an album for fans of more atmospheric progressive metal rather than for fans of technically focused progressive metal. It's obviously been the band's goal to go for a more atmospheric sound compared to their technically focused past in Zero Hour. The way they succeed in reaching that goal is rather impressive and "ReEvolution" is overall a great second release in the planned triology. A 4 star (80%) rating is deserved.