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Label: Syzygy
Tracks:
- The Allegory Of Light (19:42): a) M.O.T.H., b) Beggar's Tale, c) Distant
- ght
- In The Age Of Mankind (19:03): a) Zinjanthropus, b) Industryopolis
- Forbidden (3:22)
- Light Speed (2:58)
- The Journey Of Myrrdin (17:29)
Musicians:
- Carl Baldassarre - guitars, guitar synth, bass guitar; vocals (2, 6)
- Sam Giunta - piano, synthesizers
- Paul Mihacevich - drums, percussion; vocals (1)
Guest musicians:
- Al Rolik - bass guitar (2, 7)
This American group, according to the critics in the net's prog rock
websites, has been one of the winners of 2003, since it has been considered
as the authors of one of the most remarkable albums of 2003. Undoubtedly,
"The Allegory of Light" is a very good album, though I think that it's not
that much, either.
I suppose the success can be related to the fact that Syzygy plays genuine
prog-rock. Old school progressive, but with the presence of sounds that can
be found in some current bands of the genre. Also, the technical skills
of the musicians have also played an important role in the high value given
by the critics to this band. They are really spectacular at moments.
Syzygy's history began back ten years ago, no more no less, when they
released their first long play, the only one to date. This first album was
recorded under the name of Witsend. The reason of they renamed was that they
forgot to register the name Witsend. Then, another band obtained it so they
had to look for another one.
In this second recording, Syzygy play a very energetic progressive rock,
based on long instrumental passages of certain structural complexity. There
is a consistent base from the classic 70's bands, but at times the
instrumentation becomes denser and extreme as it happens in fusion and
prog-metal genres. Also, vocal parts with a strong American taste are
present (they remind me to Salem Hill). Syzygy's main influences would be
Yes, Kansas, Gentle Giant, ELP, Rush, or Dream Theater, among other bands.
The problem with this album is that musicians takes too long in the
instrumental developments, reaching too much pretentious parts at times.
And it's a shame. Undoubtedly Syzygy are excellent musicians, but sometimes
they need a brake. I think that they could have done a more balanced and
attractive album if they had not worried so much in demonstrating
their technical skills.
Anyway, most of the totally instrumental long track "In the Age of Mankind"
is really good, and it will satisfy to most prog-heads. For a very simple
reason: in it they will find the super-progressive track they were waiting
for. Also, acoustic tracks like "Forbidden" or "Beggar's Tale" are plenty of
value for any fan. Whereas the tracks more lengthen with some instrumental
developments are, to my taste, "M.O.T.H." and "The Journey of Myrrdin".
I state again that many fans will find on this work exactly what they are
looking for: progressive-symphonic rock from head to toes. I recommend
to give Syzygy an opportunity.
Rating: 7/10
Ferran Lizana
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