Awakenings (Symphony X) (LP 4046 - 4047)

Symphony X  The Odyssey (CD, InsideOut Records, 2002) ***  

Symphony X  Iconoclast (CD, Nuclear Blast Records, 2011) *****

Genre: Prog metal

Places I remember: Fopp

Fab, and all the other pimply hyperboles: Heretic (Iconoclast)

Gear costume: Iconoclast

They loom large in his legend (The Album Collection playlists): Part 1; Part 2; Part 3; Part 4; Part 5; Part 6

Active compensatory factors: I've previously written about Russell Allen's solo album, now we've finally come to the main event - American prog metal band Symphony X (Russell is their brilliant lead vocalist, Michael Romeo is their axe hero).

The Odyssey was the band's sixth album. The title track is a 7-part suite weighing in at 24 minutes. It's a wonder this subject matter hasn't been covered before - it's perfect for prog. Symphony X are an old school fantasy metal band who love showcasing the story of Odysseus with pummeling guitars. I love it!

According to Russell Allen, Iconoclast's theme is based on "The idea of machines taking over everything, and all this technology we put our society into pretty much being our demise." Very apropos in 2025 as AI is poised to TAKE OVER THE WORLD!!!! Ahem.

Anyway - this is the pinnacle of Symphony X - churning guitars, great vocals, pounding bass and speedy drums. What are you waiting for??? Go to it.

Where do they all belong? Allow Iconoclast to rip your head off!

That's it for the epic S category. Next up the equally epic T category.