Underworld

Being my second Symphony X album (the first being The Odyssey) I'm relatively new-ish to the band, although I've known of them for a while. In a way, I'm quite glad that I've not purchased the rest of their back catalog yet as it's allowed me to enjoy this album without comparing it too much to previous ones, which is something that I see happen often when it comes to bands of 20+ years releasing new material. Whilst this album is certainly not as progressive as The Odyssey in terms of the music itself, it's definitely still a prog-metal album. There's still virtuoso musicianship, lengthy songs (To Hell and Back) and technical riffage spread out across the entire album, just presented in a much more concise, punchy package.One thing that I've seen some people comment on is the apparent attempt at 'commercial' success with songs like 'Without You'. I really don't see how writing a really catchy ballad is an attempt at commercial success. Okay, it's a bit softer than the other songs, but why let that bother you? A good song is a good song. Michael Romeo had stated in plenty of interviews before the release that the album's main focus was songwriting and they really nailed it. Every song feels like a fully formed idea, and it's quite amazing how they manage to cram so many catchy choruses and riffs into practically every song! It seems as though many hardcore prog fans fear the term 'catchy' or 'hook', which is absolutely ridiculous because a chorus that gets stuck in your head will really make the difference between a good song and a great song and this is an album full of them.As I said at the start, I can only really rate this album for what it is rather than compare it to previous Symphony X albums (something I think people should do regardless) so in conclusion, I love it. It's full of everything I like; amazing guitar playing across the board, fantastic musicianship from everyone, soaring vocals and really good songs with infectious melodies, all done in that epic Symphony X way.

I only got into Symphony X when I heard tracks from their Paradise Lost Cd, and loved the vocals of Russell Allen so bought the Cd. I have since bought Iconoclast which is another very good Cd, but Underworld in my view is one step on from the last two Cd's. From the 1st notes of the symphonic opener Overture going into fantastic 2nd track Nevermore [ which is one of my favourites ]. Title track Underworld comes next which is a good rock track followed by Without You [ The Single from the Cd ] which has a ballad style to it. Then the two very catchy but quite heavy songs Kiss of Fire and Charon. Next comes To Hell and Back which is another song I find myself singing the lyrics,when the song keeps coming into my head. Track 8 is In my Darkest Hour, another catchy track followed by Run with the Devil, a song that grows on you and then Slower song Swan Song which is a slow burner but another song I really like after frequent listens. The album finishes with 11th track Legend which is a great end to this epic Cd. So all I can say is Buy this Fantastic album and see for yourself.

Songs, songs, songs....Most bands don't have them ,or don't have enough of them, these guys have great songs oozing out of them.You'll be humming 'Without You' morning noon and night after listening too just once... this is as simply as good as it gets with Prog Metal -Ironically, I've never heard them on Planet Rock radio, should they be? well yes they should, but kind o' glad they aren't as they are a very special musical phenomenon and think I like it that way...Well done guys, keep doing what you're doing - and I'm a fan for life....Col

Cannot believe this band when it comes To England only does the smaller venues - These are true giants of prog metal, vastly underrated and even better live.in the Dreamtheater class as far as I am concernedAnd, yet another brilliant CD with at least two band members again standing with anything as good on the entire planet for this genre i.e Russel Allen and of course, Michael Romeo

What an epic album this is. Even 4 years on from its release it is still on my regular playlist and I can’t wait to hear the follow up!

all goood

Four words: Worderful Sound, Incredible Soundstage. Sound even better throught a tube amplifier. Received on time.If you like this album on MP3 or CD, this versión will blowing your mind. Please hear "Legend" ... if already is a song that reaches deep into the heart, this vinyl will be surely amazing. Check it out.Cheers from Chile.

This is a great CD which maintains their characteristic sound and displays their musical prowess as one of the top metal prog bands. In my opinion this is the strongest of the last 3 albums. Russell Allen has got to be the greatest voice in the prog world and ably maintains his reputation in this latest offering.