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ADAGIO

Progressive Metal • France


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Adagio biography
Founded in Montpellier, France in 2000 - On hiatus since 2018

Hailing from Montpellier, France, ADAGIO was formed in 2000 by guitarist Stéphan FORTÉ, a former graduate of the CMCN Music Academy in Nancy, having undergone compositional studies of the baroque and classical periods as well as Jazz fusion. In 1996, he released his first symphonic metal instrumental demo," Visions", which lead to an opening slot for Yngwie MALMSTEEN. Having added vocals and expanded his catalogue to eight original compositions, he was offered a tentative contract by French record company N.T.S, who suggested he form his own band. FORTE recruited vocalist David READMAN (PINK CREAM 69) to the band, having met him at a concert during summer of 2000, when they quickly became enthusiastic about a mutual collaboration. Although FORTE programmed most of the keyboard arrangements himself, he was ably assisted by Richard ANDERSSON (MAJESTIC), while the line-up was completed by a rhythm section comprising of Franck HERMANNY on bass and Dirk BRUINENBERG (ELEGY) on the drum stool, who were initially called in as guest musicians.

The result of this collaboration was the band's debut, "Sanctus Ignis" (2001), produced by Pink Cream 69's bassist Dennis WARD, having previously worked with VANDEN PLAS, AXXIS and DC COOPER in this regard. Designed as a showcase for FORTE's skills, hallmarked by long, intricate guitar parts of great technical virtuosity, "Sanctus Ignis" could best be described as a dark, slightly melancholic progressive metal release in the symphonic/ neo-classical tradition. Influenced by MALMSTEEN on the one hand and bands such as SYMPHONY X on the other, FORTE's guitars were ably complemented by READMAN's searing vocals, soaring above the Frenchman's compositions, such as "Second Sight", "Sanctus Ignis" and the monumental "Seven Lands Of Sin", however the release became of particular interest of guitarists and received notable success in France and Japan.

Their follow-up, "Underworld" (2003) was the consequence of two year's intense song-writing from FORTE, whose pre-occupation with the themes of death and existence, resulted in an altogether darker release, featuring more overtly orchestral elements supported by Rose HREIDMARR (ANOREXIA NERVOSA) on a vocals, as well as the 50 strong choir 'Ensemble Vocal de Lyon'. The arrival of permanent keyboard player, the classically trained Kevin CODFERT (who would later become more involved in the production and mix...
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ADAGIO discography


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ADAGIO top albums (CD, LP, MC, SACD, DVD-A, Digital Media Download)

3.92 | 114 ratings
Sanctus Ignis
2001
4.04 | 143 ratings
Underworld
2003
3.57 | 66 ratings
Dominate
2006
3.34 | 57 ratings
Archangels In Black
2009
3.84 | 25 ratings
Life
2017

ADAGIO Live Albums (CD, LP, MC, SACD, DVD-A, Digital Media Download)

3.31 | 23 ratings
A Band In Upperworld
2004

ADAGIO Videos (DVD, Blu-ray, VHS etc)

ADAGIO Boxset & Compilations (CD, LP, MC, SACD, DVD-A, Digital Media Download)

ADAGIO Official Singles, EPs, Fan Club & Promo (CD, EP/LP, MC, Digital Media Download)

ADAGIO Reviews


Showing last 10 reviews only
 Archangels In Black by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2009
3.34 | 57 ratings

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Archangels In Black
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by Idaho

2 stars Lots of death growl vocals, symphonic-style music, and a classic metal sound. Fortunately there is some diversity in the vocal types, with traditional non-death vocals emerging on some songs. These include "Getsu Senshi," Codex Obscura, and the title track. Not surprising, then, these songs with minimal death vocals tend to be my favorite songs on Archangels in Black.

The music itself is decent, but a bit generic. Fans of symphonic-style metal and death vocals may enjoy this. I certainly enjoyed parts of it. But none of the music is interesting or good enough to make up for the death vocals, and so I really can't give this any more than 2.5 stars.

 Sanctus Ignis by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2001
3.92 | 114 ratings

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Sanctus Ignis
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by Idaho

3 stars Adagio's first album, Sanctus Ignis, is good but rather generic. Lots of great guitar playing, good but very generic metal vocals, mediocre lyrics. This is not a Dream Theater clone--it's worse. It's a Symphony X clone. Granted, there are some guitar solos that sound remarkably like Yngwie Malmsteen, so it's not a perfect clone. As one would expect, speedy guitars are prominent.

It still manages to be a good album. The musicians are all extremely talented. The music moves quickly, and even if there's not much originality, it is still enjoyable music. "Stringless Violin" is a highlight, as is the instrumental "Immigrant Song," a great creative cover of the classic Zeppelin song.

Malmsteen and Symphony X fans will probably love this. Like cotton candy, it's quite tasty. But like cotton candy, when it comes down to it, there's not much substance. 3.5 stars.

 Sanctus Ignis by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2001
3.92 | 114 ratings

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Sanctus Ignis
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by siLLy puPPy
Special Collaborator PSIKE, JRF/Canterbury, P Metal, Eclectic

3 stars Considered by many to be the French version of Symphony X mixed with Rhapsody Of Fire, the progressive power metal band ADAGIO was formed by guitarist Stéphan Forté in the year 2000 after graduating from the CMCN music school (now known as the Music Academy International.) The band was initiated for the love of Yngwie Malmsteem's virtuosic neoclassical shedding style which Forté mastered without missing a beat. While ADAGIO would later develop a stronger symphonic side of its person a with choirs and elements of progressive rock, this 2001 debut SANCTUS IGNÍS showcases a fairly straight forward style of progressive power metal much in the vein of the US act Symphony X to the point that this could really pass as some lost album of the New York based prog metal champions.

The band originally formed in Montpellier in the south of France but has since relocated to Paris. Ironically the moniker ADAGIO is an Italian term that means "at ease" and refers to a slow tempo whereas the band itself is known for its extremely fast tempos. While not exactly cranking up a storm at the level of say Dragonforce, ADAGIO does turn up the heat on much of SANCTUS IGNÍS with the emphasis on Forté's neoclassical guitar shredding style however often it does site back in the mix while tapestries of keyboard sound dominate the soundscape. This album consists of 9 tracks and races past the 58 minute mark and while the album contains no sprawling 20 minute behemoths it does have one track, "Seven Lands Of Sin" that just misses the 12 minute mark.

When you're listening to SANCTUS IGNÍS you really just can't shake the Symphony X comparisons because at this stage ADAGIO is really the perfect clone of one of the US's most referred progressive power metal bands. There is a distinct classical underpinning for melodies with stomping guitar riffs that build up tension and climax with sizzling solos carried out with power metal gusto. David Readman has particularly strong vocals and belts out these demanding vocal performances with ease although his talents are overshadowed by the fact he sounds like a gazillion other vocalists out there which is pretty much the problem with ADAGIO's debut in every regard. This album simply lacks an ounce of originality that sets it apart from any other album in the demanding world of progressive power metal.

The saving grace of SANCTUS IGNÍS is that the musicianship is top notch and the album is not at all an unpleasant listening experience in the least. If you are hell bent for leather to track down every possible band that worships the alter of bands like Symphony X and Rhapsody of Fire then ADAGIO will give you orgasmic sensations until your eyes bulge out however like many bands of this ilk, ADAGIO at this stage is woefully bereft of inspiration and going through the motions for their own sake. Add to that the band isn't nearly as accomplished as either Symphony X or Rhapsody in constructing interesting compositions that display a wide range of motifs that construct a much larger movement. Music like this has to have a higher purpose that allows the progressive power metal to support otherwise it just feels like an empty shell. I would say that SANCTUS IGNÍS is superior to the first two Symphony X albums but pales in comparison to some of that band's later efforts. Extraordinary in execution but underwhelming in the compositional department.

3.5 rounded down

 Archangels In Black by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2009
3.34 | 57 ratings

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Archangels In Black
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by sgtpepper

3 stars Want to hear how extreme metal can be mixed with symphonic metal and headbang to the sophisticated classically influenced metal? If yes, then this is the album for you! If not, then just sit down and enjoy in a calm manner ;). Archangels in Black is a departure from the first two highly praised classical music inspired works. Darkness has always been present in the Adagio's music. The level of ambitions has sunk since 2003's masterpiece and the band has stepped down from the progressive symphonic metal's top. The music still remains a blend of ingredients, but classical music has been partly replaced by brutal death/black metal growls and you will notice short thrash metal moments too. Melodies are as good as before and the vocalist with the guitar players are dominant guests here. Keyboard is used to round up the atmosphere but not as one of the main elements. The most experimental track and kind of return to the previous form is only the lengthiest and obscurely named "Codex Oscura" ;).

Still recommended to most symphonic metal fans who do not mind occassional brutal moments.

 Underworld by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2003
4.04 | 143 ratings

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Underworld
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by sgtpepper

5 stars Adagio's Underworld is a very tasty and crunchy blend of progressive and power metal underlined with strong influences from classical music. Although it does not bring anything new on the table what hasn't been invented yet, the design and execution is far beyond anything average in this symphony/progressive metal echelon.

The voice fits the pompeous and epic nature well. Guitars sound aggressive enough just to bend down in classical suites and even switch to acoustic guitars in a few moments. Comparing to some other progressive symphonic metal bands such as Symphony X, keyboards play a more dominant role and playing chops are at the same level as guitar shredding by Stephan Forte. The first album featuring a different keyboards already showed that all band members should be taken seriously. Various keyboards including piano, synths, and organs can be found here. Classical instrumentation is delicate and allows to breath out from heavier moments. The compositions are complex, versatile and verse from easily accessible to very pompous and complex arrangements. Yes, the band can be compared to Symphony X and there are many things in common but Adagio is more symphonic and has more balanced sound. With regards to vocals, I still prefer the rough voice of Symphony X.

This album can hold well on its own and is rightfully one of the best and most ambitious work in progressive symphonic metal.

 Underworld by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2003
4.04 | 143 ratings

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Underworld
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by nDeck

4 stars The codex of neo-classical style of progressive metal

This album is a masterpiece for the band Adagio, their best album in many aspects. It is sure a great work of composition and recording. The leader of Adagio, Stephan Forte, went in Lyon (France) to record the choir for the album, to give more credit to the project of creating the ultimate symphonic metal album. Every music contains what you here in every other contemporaneous band, intro with strings, long organ bridges, solos of electric guitar and keyboard (don't forget it was made in 2003). Unfortunately, even if the listening of the album gives you a good feeling, every song took apart are not as memorable as the ensemble. There are melodies that drive the song all the way to the end. You find parts of Keyboard/guitar/bass shredding for the sake of shredding and, I'm starting to get sick of these parts...

So a Masterpiece for Adagio, for the progressive rock collection, but sometimes it looses its way with demonstration of technical virtuosity. So it is not a masterpiece of prog music because every master has its balance between virtuosity demonstration and musicality.

To conclude it worth at least one listening to make up your mind if you're a fan of symphonic metal. Underworld is a excellent addition to any collection

 Underworld by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2003
4.04 | 143 ratings

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Underworld
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by Menswear
Prog Reviewer

3 stars Headbanging in a pirate shirt.

Yep, just like the one Bach wore on his paintings with the puffy sleeves and the cauliflower on the neck. On the more serious side, Adagio is offering a nice (but too sparse) blend of baroque and roll. The keyboard player is giving his share of harpsicord and the impressive choir is giving a zest of gothic impression in an album that doesn't really part from your typical metal band. The singer is howling to the moon, the double bass drum is almost always present and the guitars are vertiginous but non-surprising. They have talent, oh yeah.

The only thing that drawed me to this album was the reviews saying 'it's a blend of classical music and metal'. It is, but not enough to give a deep impression. Try it, you probably will like it if you're looking for something melodious, catchy and loud. I just love the blend of classical music and metal, I think it's such a killer approach. But to me the classical vein should've been more exploited; they had something going on some tracks!

Good but needs more cowbell.

 Dominate by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2006
3.57 | 66 ratings

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Dominate
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by toroddfuglesteg

2 stars I am the first one to admit that just the thought of power metal fills me with dread. It is one of my least favorite music styles from this planet & further afield. This album really plays on all the strings I do not like.

Pompeous, over inflated sound is what this album brings my speakers and then my senses. The album is based on verse-choir-verse-solo-choir.... well, you get my drift. The vocals is a mix of growls and normal vocals. The guitar solos is diddely-dey-diggi-lo-diggi-lei which is far too common within the power metal genre. The melodies are pretty simple, although the big sound tries to dress up the songs into something greater than they are. The inclusion on this album of a dreadful version of the title track from the very popular movie & TV series Fame is something I cannot fathom. It devalues this album and the band.

There are some pretty good songs here on this album. But Fame is dreadful and so is a couple of other songs too. There is no great songs on this album at all. The solos is uninspired and only the tangent player and the vocalist escapes from this album with their good reputation intact. This album is best forgotten.

2 stars

 Sanctus Ignis by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2001
3.92 | 114 ratings

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Sanctus Ignis
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by Mystery

4 stars Adagio's debut was a very promising album, filled with excellent musicianship, solid songwriting, and fairly good production. This album, along with the follow-up Underworld, are both excellent neo-classical progressive albums. Additionally, this album is the only one by Adagio that is completely devoid of death vocals (although Underworld had very, very few, and only on 2 songs).

The album starts strongly on Second Sight and flows very well. The classical influence is very prominent, yet not overwhelming and in fact perfectly mixed with the guitars, bass, and drums. Forte is a virtuoso-level guitarist, and his solos are both technical and captivating. However, Richard Andersson, while good as a keyboardist, does not provide the same experience as Kevin Codfert who would later replace him and be featured on all prior Adagio albums.

The album, overall, is a strong mix of classical music and metal. Forte composed all of the songs, and he did an excellent job.

Highlights: Inner Road, In Nomine, and above all Stringless Violin

Overall: 4.5

 Underworld by ADAGIO album cover Studio Album, 2003
4.04 | 143 ratings

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Underworld
Adagio Progressive Metal

Review by Mystery

4 stars This Adagio album is the last to feature David Readman, who is my favorite vocalist for the group. Likewise, it was the last appearance of Dirk Bruinenberg, the drummer.

This album succeeds in creating a mysterious, bleak atmosphere, yet all the while remaining beautiful. The orchestra lends grandiose and majesty while not remaining overused. The guitar solos are executed well and highly technical, yet not to an obnoxious extreme. The keyboards are delivered brilliantly by my favorite keyboardist, Kevin Codfert, and add an entirely new dimension to the music. Franck Hermanny's bass, while not very audible, shines when it can be heard.

The music flows well from track to track, and the band shines on every one of them. This album is very good and is one of the better neo-classical prog metal albums out there.

Thanks to tymed for the artist addition. and to Quinino for the last updates

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