print“Underworld” by progressive metal band Symphony X features evocative melodies, harmonic complexity, gorgeous arrangements, furious licks, sublime singing and impossible time-signature fluctuations. No contrapuntal incompetence in this outfit’s repertoire of abilities.
The CD is in the grand tradition of the band’s 2000 album “V: The New Mythology Suite,” down to the heroic, epic themes—except that Russell Allen’s voice has vastly improved. (How unusual an achievement is that with age?) And guitarist Michael Romeo has now establishment himself in the mind of this long-time lover of fine progressive metal—which means a handful of outfits ONLY—as far and away superior to Dream Theater’s John Petrucci. Another difficult feat. Dream Theatre, alas, is encumbered by singer James LaBrie (unless he too has improved with age).
ILANA Mercer
Author, Into the Cannibal’s Pot: Lessons for America from Post-Apartheid South Africa
Columnist, WND’s longest-standing, paleolibertarian weekly column, The Unz Review, America’s smartest webzine
Contributor, Townhall.com., American Greatness
Fellow, Jerusalem Institute for market Studies (JIMS)
www.ilanamercer.com
UPDATE I (9/20/020):
To improve your week-end, Symphony X's soaring metal ballad, off the album "Underworld,” by this the only progressive rockers who, imo, best Dream Theater. Russell Allen. Well, yes, Russell Allen (briefly met @ a Seattle concert, when our city was great) https://t.co/r7v053gkub pic.twitter.com/oS8ClioUSy
— ILANA Mercer (@IlanaMercer) September 20, 2020
UPDATE II (6/23/021): Great Ballads.
Nothing comes close to #SymphonyX, @Paleoliberty20 .#RussellAllen’s voice just improves. (How unusual an achievement is that with age?) And guitarist #MichaelRomeo is more than sublime. Instrument part of his arm, like #EdwardScissorhandshttps://t.co/Db0yj78NFP
— ILANA Mercer (@IlanaMercer) June 23, 2021
UPDATE III (2/18/023): SYMPHONY X – “Without You” is one of the greatest rock ballads. Up there with “Silent Lucidity” by Queensrÿche