Search - Symphony X :: Paradise Lost 5.1

Once you hear the 5.1 mix, you may find yourself ignoring th

George Dionne | Cape Cod, MA | 09/03/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Good

If you missed out on the 2007 release of this album, than SPV has a special treat for you. Paradise Lost 5.1 not only delivers the standard 10 track CD, but also a bonus disc (DVD) that contains a special 5.1 mix of the album, as well as two HD music videos.



Epic is the only word that can describe the music on Symphony X's latest offering. It's almost as if you are listening to a momentous movie. That movie comes to life in you imagination and runs wild. "Set the World on Fire" is a guitar lover's wet-dream. The riffs are meaty and electrifying. The drums are devastating, and vocalist Russell Allen brings the characters to life with his melodic and emotional delivery.



"Serpent's Kiss" brings the tempo down a little bit, but keeps the amplifiers cranked to 11. The track is a twisted story that parallels life in the Garden of Eden, with the focus on the devil's role. The piano takes center stage for the tender tale that is "Paradise Lost." With Allen's passionate vocals here you have to wonder why he chose the metal field, rather than broadway or mainstream rock.



"Eve of Seduction" boils down to a duel between the rapid-fire guitar of Michael Romeo and keyboardist Michael Pinnella. "Sacrifice" is another gut-wrenching ballad delivered over-the-top by Allen and company. The album simply comes to life on the 5.1 mix. It literally surrounds you with electric power and emotion. The HD videos are a mix of digital imagery and live band performances.



The Bad

Once you hear the 5.1 mix, you may find yourself ignoring the regular mix.



The Verdict

Symphony X deliver another powerhouse full of metal fury and emotional heart. The 5.1 mix of Paradise Lost enhances the experience by adding an extra level of vibrancies that literally makes the material come to life."