V - THE NEW MYTHOLOGY SUITE

My favorite Symphony X album, followed closely by "The Divine Wings of Tragedy" and "The Odyssey". Of all the "symphonic power prog metal" (whew!!!) bands, Symphony X are undoubtedly the best!!! (Dream Who???) Russell Allen is among my all-time favorite vocalists. The feeling he has, the tone of his voice (far from being as cheesy and annoying as James Labrie (isn't brie cheese???)), his various intonations and complete mastery of his vocal chords surpass all. He can go from agressive growls to a soft melodic voice, from low to high pitch (without sticking too long or too often in the higher registers of his voice). A singer in the traditions of Journey and Foreigner, only better (he IS that good!!!). Symphony X are as competent, if not moreso, than Dream Theater, the main difference being that Symphony X write songs for the sake of songs, not as a pretext to show off their amazing dexterity more than needed (read tolerated).

Now with the album...

Not much to say except this : I cannot find something that displeases me. The album is good from start to finish, the running order is perfect (an improper order of songs can make the difference between a good and a not-so-good album), the production is great, the musicianship flawless, the songwriting excellent, the storyline great, the artwork magnificent. I love every single moment of this album and never get tired of listening to it.

For fans of Rush, Yngwie Malmsteen, Dream Theater, Rhapsody, etc...

Symphony X's masterpiece for the time being... I cannot wait for the new album to come out !!! Definitely an essential !