Composer/Musician Reacts to Symphony X - The Odyssey (REACTION!!!)

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 3 жов 2020
  • Bryan reacts to and talks about his thoughts on The Odyssey
    ORIGINAL VIDEO // • The Odyssey
    PATREON // / criticalreactions
    Vote on future themes and bands, get access to the community Discord server, and get invites to livestreams
    TWITTER // / critreactions
    BLOCKED VIDEOS // docs.google.com/document/d/1S...
    REQUESTS SPREADSHEET // docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...
    SPECIAL SELECTION LIST // docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...

КОМЕНТАРІ • 190

  • @XannMagus
    @XannMagus 3 роки тому +91

    Ah ! I'm so glad! This video was everything I hoped it would be! Your pronunciation was correct ;)
    Also, this is a musical rendition of The Odyssey by Homer, told from Odysseus' point of view (or Ulysses as he's more well known)

    • @CriticalReactions
      @CriticalReactions  3 роки тому +26

      That's pretty awesome about the concept. The word Odyssey and the image of the cover certainly evokes the ancient Greeks and Homer. It's a wonder that I didn't make the connection in the moment though.

    • @XannMagus
      @XannMagus 3 роки тому +14

      @@CriticalReactions this song was actually split in "movements" with different credits and times so it can be seen as the merger of 7 smaller songs in a way. The fact that it's a direct reference to Homer's Odyssey is easier to pick up on if you know the names of the places and the global flow of the story. In my first listen, I noticed the name "Ithaca" and the part about the eye made me think of the Cyclops, but I didn't realize until later what it was. Also, considering you were busy analyzing the music, it was a tall order to expect you to know it was not just an Odyssey but The Odyssey haha

    • @JustinOhio
      @JustinOhio 3 роки тому +1

      @@CriticalReactions That's understandable... Long time SX fans know that they always write around Greek mythology, and other epic books from the farthest history we have.

    • @hazardeur
      @hazardeur 3 роки тому

      you don't say

    • @xulphyte
      @xulphyte 7 місяців тому +1

      It's not Homer.
      It's HOMEROS ( Ὅμηρος). Not Homer. Stop doing that.

  • @PabloSaavedra84
    @PabloSaavedra84 3 роки тому +70

    TRIUUUMPHAAANT!!! Champion of Ithacaaa 🎵

  • @40mmRaygun
    @40mmRaygun 3 роки тому +117

    Michael Romeo writes some of the best if not the best riffs in metal. His riff writing is often overlooked because a lot of people only concentrate on his shredding.

    • @xcforce9067
      @xcforce9067 3 роки тому +6

      Absolutely! Romeo really shines as a rhythm guitarist on this song. Solos of course are also impressive.

    • @hazardeur
      @hazardeur 3 роки тому

      don't forget about songwriting. i don't know who is the main songwriter in SX but whoever it is, mad skills. As guitarist, I figure Romeo is at least participating in the songwriting process so Kudos to him

    • @Ennello
      @Ennello 2 роки тому

      His riffs hold a candle to his solos, man. Shredding is just about skill, and his solos are often just that, a display of skill, but the riffs show both his skill AND musicality

    • @exscape
      @exscape Рік тому

      @@hazardeur He has songwriting credits on all songs on the album, and he's the ONLY one with songwriting credits for The Odyssey!

    • @hazardeur
      @hazardeur Рік тому

      @@exscape yeah, i would have been shocked if he wouldn't

  • @memoriasparahistorias
    @memoriasparahistorias 3 роки тому +93

    Next choice by Symphony X should be The Divine Wings Of Tragedy. Another epic masterpiece

    • @rasmusskovsted8934
      @rasmusskovsted8934 3 роки тому +5

      Holy cow! If he did that id be above the moon! Its my personal favourite songs from Symphony X.

    • @thecheif00
      @thecheif00 3 роки тому +2

      The "Live on the Edge of Forever" version tho.

    • @normantompkins1252
      @normantompkins1252 3 роки тому

      I agree

    • @chilepeulla
      @chilepeulla 3 роки тому

      Ulises Hernandez absolutely, that version is much superior than the original one

    • @lamia.thira.lowenstein
      @lamia.thira.lowenstein 3 роки тому

      that's my fave symphony x too

  • @gary900
    @gary900 3 роки тому +39

    This song makes my top 10 prog metal songs of all time. It has everything, and the storytelling is incredible. You could write a whole theatric play with it.

    • @yotambraunshtein9786
      @yotambraunshtein9786 3 роки тому

      Not even in my top 5 symphonyX songs but you do you oh and you must chek shards by scardust

  • @brendanl1589
    @brendanl1589 3 роки тому +41

    The album cover is actually a direct reference to a scene from Homer's classic Odyssey, where Odysseus (the main character) ties himself to the mast of the ship in order to resist the Sirens. Great reaction, and analysis!

    • @patriciomendez644
      @patriciomendez644 3 роки тому

      And in early Greek vases of that specific scene in from The Odyssey harpies are often shown flying around

  • @tinplatedave
    @tinplatedave 3 роки тому +31

    Yes I agree with what you said. The orchestral parts in the beginning and the end are truly accentuating the overture of this song. But in between is where the musical magic happens, So many parts, scenes, time signatures, etc. Alot of people say they are mimicking Dream Theater but they are not. They have their own style and yes Michael Romeo has composed all of this.. But he is a virtuoso who can truly bring the same caliber of music as John Petrucci but in a more classical way. Anyway I'm going to stop talking now. Please play more Symphony X.

  • @beneathsands
    @beneathsands 3 роки тому +36

    Their other epic "The Divine Wings of Tragedy" is equally amazing

    • @ScarsUnseen
      @ScarsUnseen 3 роки тому +6

      "Their other epic" as if they only have two =p

    • @LuluTheSpork
      @LuluTheSpork 3 роки тому

      As well as "Communion and the Oracle"

    • @HawkOfGP
      @HawkOfGP 2 роки тому +1

      @@ScarsUnseen To be fair, those are the only two to run over 20 minutes. But they do have an another bunch of the 10 minute songs.

  • @surfeit5910
    @surfeit5910 3 роки тому +7

    The Odyssey is essentially Homer's "sequel" to his epic poem "The Iliad". In the story, Odysseus was the king of Ithica in ancient Greece, who sided with Agamemnon to fight against Troy. On his way home he got lost at sea and met pretty much every single mythological Greek character and demi-god we al know by name these days. After 10 years of being at war and another 10 of being lost at sea, he returns to see his opposition trying to steal his wife, his kingdom and his throne.
    This song is the literal definition of an "epic" :) Michael Romeo the guitarist and composer, is not only a phenomenal guitarist, but an equally impressive composer who takes several bits of inspiration from James Horner (The Star Wars composer). Russel Allen, the singer, is also heavily influenced by mythology and fantasy, going as far as having been the mastery of ceremonies at "Medieval Times" in New Jersey - a dinner banquet and jousting/mock fighting competition roleplayed with a Medieval theme.

  • @SyX512
    @SyX512 3 роки тому +17

    I hear this song at least once a month for the last 17 years and it still amuses me, It gets better everytime.

    • @chilepeulla
      @chilepeulla 3 роки тому +2

      Man I know what you’re saying, I haven’t listened to this one in a few months, even though it’s one of my all time favorite songs, and all I’m thinking is “damn, this song has so many interesting parts and ideas” it’s an awesome display of talent from all the band members, and an insane display of creativity from Michael Romeo since he wrote the whole just by himself

    • @j4ur14
      @j4ur14 3 роки тому +1

      a very healthy habit sir.

  • @reijonator
    @reijonator 3 роки тому +15

    Thank you. Symphony X needs more recognition. As many has suggested, The divine wings of tragedy is another masterpiece, yes, but it's not like SX specialize in really long songs. They are great though, of course. And almost all of their albums are great, especially their earlier work imo. TDWoT should be a must but there are many "normal" length songs that are great aswell. The eyes of medusa, Unleash the fire, Evolution (the grand design), The witching hour, Out of the ashes, just to name a few. Great reaction! And again, thanks.

  • @steezydan8543
    @steezydan8543 3 роки тому +24

    Oh hell yeah! "The Odyssey" is a song I can only dream of playing on guitar. One of THE BEST prog metal guitar tracks of all time. Gotta shout out my boys in BTBAM this has the same EPIC qualities as "Swim To The Moon" off the album "The Great Misdirect.

  • @xyced
    @xyced 3 роки тому +30

    i'd recommend 'And Then There Was Silence' by Blind Guardian for another epic about a similar subject matter

    • @u.v.s.5583
      @u.v.s.5583 3 роки тому

      Then you could as well go with some serious music. Sieges Even. Straggler from Atlantis. Try it.

    • @SKULLEDBUICK
      @SKULLEDBUICK 3 роки тому +1

      I second this so much.

  • @jerod256
    @jerod256 3 роки тому +7

    Symphony X has been one of my favourites for a while. I'm glad you got to them. They're a band that loves what they do so much they're not afraid to break traditions, rules, or appear cheesey or weird. They just give'er.
    Also, I love Russell Allen's vocals. They're very bluesy and I love bluesy vocals.

  • @Lyon1992
    @Lyon1992 3 роки тому +4

    Great video! The Odyssey is one of my favorite stories and one of my favorite songs. I definitely agree, on the first listen it's hard to comprehend and appreciate all that goes into it and it took me a few tries to realize how great of a song it was. Sadly with the orchestra, they've used less and less as time has passed and become just more of a heavy metal band than the neoclassical band they used to be. Michael Romeo is such an amazing writer and guitar player and all of the band members are just as good. Russel Allen's vocals are incredible and I loved your reaction to the harmonies of the last section. This got a little ranty so I'll just say that The Odyssey will always be a masterpiece in my eyes and many others and I'm glad you could appreciate it as much as we do.

  • @EvilForgemaster
    @EvilForgemaster 3 роки тому +5

    This is the first video I've seen of yours, and I subscribed immediately because I liked how modest and real you are.
    May I suggest another one from Symphony X? Listen to "Egypt" from them. It's not as lengthy (it's around 7 minutes) and it's a lot easier to digest, but complex enough to keep you hooked.

  • @IHateEliranAtar
    @IHateEliranAtar 3 роки тому +10

    Circus Maximus' first album is indeed very similar to old-era Symphony X, though it seems quite odd that you first listened to Circus Maximus and then to Symphony X, given Circus Maximus are newer and were clearly influenced by Symphony X. Myrath's first album is also very similar to old-era Symphony X.

  • @johanliljeblad1236
    @johanliljeblad1236 3 роки тому +30

    Actually... never... heard... this... song... before. How is that even possible? Know of the band, but yeah...

    • @rjonboy7608
      @rjonboy7608 3 роки тому

      Congratulations. I remember my first time...😄

    • @Keith_Lemelin
      @Keith_Lemelin 3 роки тому +1

      I went to go see Symphony X and Devin Townsend in 2002 as a recent fan. Symphony X did Odyssey as their encore, and it was my first time listening.

  • @bm8584
    @bm8584 3 роки тому +3

    Thanks a lot for doing this video. Symphony X is one of my favorite bands ever. I love their riffs, solos, vocals, instrumental parts,... Everything. Michael Romeo and Michael Pinnella are incredible composers. Russell Allen is one of the best metal singers in history. I saw SX live twice. I hope to see them again soon.

  • @DMSpikes1987
    @DMSpikes1987 3 роки тому +5

    Oh this is gonna be a treat! I've always wanted a great reactor to try this one. Given the length of the song I never expected someone to. Thanks Brian!!

  • @andrewgalle3884
    @andrewgalle3884 3 роки тому +3

    When I saw this song performed live, Michael Romeo played the entire orchestral intro on his electric guitar as a solo. It was dope.

  • @GrizzlyAt0ms
    @GrizzlyAt0ms 3 роки тому +4

    Good Lord, this shit's so old I remember picking it up at Best Buy. Honestly, my musical taste has evolved quite a lot since I first heard it, but I'm glad to hear it still holds up, cheesy midi symphonic elements and all.

  • @randomstuffzofdoom
    @randomstuffzofdoom 3 роки тому +7

    This band is great, I discovered them back when I was in music college back in 2000. The divine wings of tragedy and twilight in olympus albums are two of the best albums I´ve heard.
    Dont get me wrong, all of their albums are good, but those two got someting really special ^^

    • @ScarsUnseen
      @ScarsUnseen 3 роки тому +2

      As a cohesive work, V is still my favorite album in their discography, but Twilight and Wings do have my favorite individual songs.

  • @JonLernerCanada
    @JonLernerCanada 3 роки тому +2

    Haha, this song reminds you of Circus Maximus because that band should be reminding you of Symphony X.
    SX has been around a lot longer, and this album in particular also came out a few years before Circus’s the 1st chapter :)

  • @jmcruz5385
    @jmcruz5385 3 роки тому +4

    Circus Maximus was actually inspired by Dream Theater and Symphony X. 😊

  • @TrevRockOne
    @TrevRockOne 3 роки тому +2

    Michael Romeo, the guitarist, programs all the orchestral stuff on his computer. He composed this whole piece.

  • @sopwithsnoopy8779
    @sopwithsnoopy8779 3 роки тому +7

    Circus Maximus started out as a Dream Theater / Symphony X cover band from what I understand, so your comparison of Symphony X to Circus Maximus isn't wrong :)

  • @tullivinicci
    @tullivinicci 3 роки тому +3

    From time to time I come back here to enjoy it again and again. February, 18, 2021.

  • @geoffglenister5535
    @geoffglenister5535 3 роки тому +1

    I know I'm late to the party, but this just popped up in my feed, and I'm glad, and impressed that you did a reaction to the entirety of "The Odyssey"! I'm also impressed that you know of Circus Maximus, though a bit mystified that you didn't know Symphony X.

  • @Moskal91
    @Moskal91 3 роки тому +2

    symphony has to be my 2nd fav band behind Dream theater i fkn love these guys. id also like to add that whoever decided that this would not be the pirates of the carribean soundtrack is absolutely crazy

  • @scotttak
    @scotttak 3 роки тому +5

    I believe their guitarist composed all the orchestral parts on this song (Michael J. Romeo). I feel like if Yngwie Malmsteen and John Williams had a baby together, you would get Michael Romeo (at least in terms of this song...some of Symphony X's other stuff I feel is a mix of Malmsteen, Williams, Dimebag Darrell/Pantera, Dio, etc...).
    It'd be cool to see some reactions to songs off their album "V: The New Mythology Suite". It is a concept album that tells a story throughout its entirety.
    I also agree that "The Divine Wings of Tragedy" would be a good song to react to.

    • @HawkOfGP
      @HawkOfGP 2 роки тому +1

      I remember seeing Michael Romeo mention John Williams in interviews, and their fan club CD even included a Star Wars suite, so he's definitely a big influence.

  • @Valkryst12
    @Valkryst12 3 роки тому +2

    One of my favourite songs of all time! It was great to hear your thoughts.

  • @thundersnow93
    @thundersnow93 2 роки тому +2

    In my prog opinion, being a long-standing fan of rush, dream theater, etc., I think this single prog behemoth is the best composition of them all. Each segment fits perfectly to Homer's Odyssey, and the music captures the journey of the epic story. The way Romeo and Symphony-X interweave the complex time signatures and melodies is masterful and done perfectly.

  • @swapticsounds
    @swapticsounds 3 роки тому +3

    I am trying to get some of the vocal coaches here on youtube to react on this song, even though I am not on Patreon. People need to hear this band!

  • @FranciscoGarcia-co5uq
    @FranciscoGarcia-co5uq 3 роки тому +1

    I'm so glad you finally did this!!!

  • @metalhead4827
    @metalhead4827 3 роки тому +16

    Please, do their album V:The New Mythology Suite, a true masterpiece

    • @bm8584
      @bm8584 3 роки тому +1

      Absolutely masterpiece

    • @alessiobartoli5755
      @alessiobartoli5755 3 роки тому +1

      My favourite from them, i love old S’x

  • @jonathanhenderson9422
    @jonathanhenderson9422 3 роки тому +1

    Symphony X are pretty great. I went through their discography probably over 15 years ago. That was the time when The Odyssey was their latest album. I remember really enjoying them at the time and being incredibly wowed by Michael Romeo's guitar work especially. Not sure why I haven't gotten back to them more... maybe because they slowed down so much releasing new albums: only 3 in the last 18 years, and none of the newer ones inspired me to go back through their discography. In any case, this was a fun trip down memory lane. I think what most stands out to me after all these years is how they're still such a cool blend of power and progressive metal, with a vocalist that sounds like he stepped straight out of the 80s! Really great epic too. I guess years of listening to prog epics in general has kinda numbed me to the feeling of being overwhelmed by tracks like this!

  • @abesluciferius
    @abesluciferius 3 роки тому +3

    Such an excellent and beautiful song. Knowing it musically narrates the story of The Odyssey by ancient Greek author Homer just gives it that important and tremendously cathartic extra layer of enjoyment.

  • @VoIcanoman
    @VoIcanoman 3 роки тому +1

    Great review. I think part of the reason why they keep the symphonic elements to the background in the middle of the song is that this is something they regularly play live (it has been a big part of FOUR tours since its release - I saw them play it once, in Montreal in July, 2007), and they're from a bit more of the old school, wherein they want the music in their live shows to be almost entirely played by the band on stage - if there's a backing track, it's relegated to a supportive role (and most of their non-epic songs don't use a backing track at all). In the case of the Odyssey, they usually play the Overture (which is the only part of the song that is REALLY orchestral, though it does contain the entire band as well, minus the singer) without the band on stage at all (i.e. they just pipe in the studio version of the Overture through the venue's speakers), so the first few minutes of the song are just a way to hype up the audience for when the band comes on stage for their encore (the live music starts with the acoustic guitar).
    As for their name, I think it's meant to evoke the complexity and texture of the symphonic style of music, rather than its traditional, orchestral nature (they're called Symphony X and not Orchestra X). Make no mistake, they're a prog metal band with power, neoclassical, and symphonic metal elements - they are *not* like Nightwish or Turisas (bands which have always utilized prominent backing tracks in their performances, something I've had to get used to...I'm a bit more of the old school as well, and feel that if you're writing a piece of music that you intend to perform live, you should also intend to reproduce the bulk of that music with a live band*). Any places in their normal-length songs (

    • @HawkOfGP
      @HawkOfGP 2 роки тому +1

      Well said. Although I understand that some bands sort of just have to use backing tracks to produce their sound live, they lose something that the fully live bands have in the process.

  • @once-and-future
    @once-and-future 3 роки тому

    For what it's worth they were able to pull this off live as well. Peak Russell Allen performance.
    Saw them touring on this album with Devin Townsend as the opening act at the Bluebird in Denver.

  • @Ryan-vh9bw
    @Ryan-vh9bw 3 роки тому +2

    Dude! What a song to wrap up with. This band saved me from a boring life of listening to formulaic pop-punk and one hit wonders. This was also the very first prog album I bought. I have a feeling you'd really appreciate their album V: The New Mythology Suite.

  • @jotaroshinsuke
    @jotaroshinsuke 3 роки тому +2

    Communion and the Oracle

  • @cassaria5047
    @cassaria5047 3 роки тому +1

    only one word to describe russell allen's voice.. EPIC

  • @Isaiah_McIntosh
    @Isaiah_McIntosh 3 роки тому +2

    This is a band I've only ever experienced piecemeal through guitar covers by virtuosos. Never thought to get into them and I definitely regret it. That being said somehow this felt a little bit long although I can't imagine what I could ever take out except maybe the false end. I'll definitely listen to this again tomorrow because this felt a little short of a masterpiece but it really should be given my tastes.
    Edit: special selections maintaining the clean sheet.

  • @Xankill3r
    @Xankill3r 3 роки тому +1

    Love this band. Definitely my favourite when it comes to the infusion of classical elements into metal.

  • @richardholmes3653
    @richardholmes3653 3 роки тому +3

    Symphony X the best band in the world 🇬🇧🤘

  • @sideskraft
    @sideskraft 3 роки тому +1

    Excellent review. You've got to see the Odyssey movie and then you'll understand and appreciate the song much more.

  • @olicorrivo3289
    @olicorrivo3289 3 роки тому +2

    If that kinda thing interest you, there is a condensed version of this song played by an orchestra. Its not super professional but they sound really good. It has to sound good anyways because the arrangement were made by Ben Mathot, the go to violinist for Ayreon, the Arjen Lucassen project. Check out Ricciotti ensemble for the video :)

  • @mulishuli995
    @mulishuli995 3 роки тому +2

    Awesome!

  • @johnpatroshoes
    @johnpatroshoes 3 роки тому

    really appreciated this reaction mate

  • @jacksonkauflin8024
    @jacksonkauflin8024 2 роки тому

    I flipped out when the thrash riff came in at 17:07 haha. This is my first reaction and it was a pleasant surprise.

  • @cutenpurdy
    @cutenpurdy 3 роки тому

    You really can't help throwing down and just enjoying this.

  • @toreg.nyhammer6328
    @toreg.nyhammer6328 3 роки тому

    @Critical Reactions Just some days ago, I asked one of the reacting guy at youtube, if he could react to The Odyssey. I don't think he has seen my comment yet. But I'm glad I find your reaction. The Odyssey is one of my favourite prog metal song. I think this is a masterpiece. Listen also to Accolade II from the same album, that's a bit similar to Odyssey, very nice music.

  • @MTheoOA
    @MTheoOA 3 роки тому +5

    Holly, Symphony X has amazing songs. The more ''Yes'' oriented, more i like ahahah. This is some Gates Of Delirium mentality, but with poping out Dream Theater (i don't like much DT, tbh... And i already listened to all his albums).

  • @felipecampos3045
    @felipecampos3045 3 роки тому +4

    Symphony X is freaking amazing, try divine wings of tragedy or literally any song from the album V

  • @pascalg16
    @pascalg16 3 роки тому +1

    4:25 I thought the same.
    It sounds quite playful , happy in a way.

  • @frostogtaake
    @frostogtaake 3 роки тому +1

    These guys are amazing. If you want to check out more of their stuff, I recommend literally anything off their Paradise Lost album.

  • @Spraypainsos
    @Spraypainsos 3 роки тому

    The 1st Chapter by CIrcus Maximus definitely gave me vibes of this song when I first heard it.

    • @CriticalReactions
      @CriticalReactions  3 роки тому +1

      Come to find out, Circus Maximus made The 1st Chapter as a homage to The Odyssey.

  • @CYON4D
    @CYON4D 2 роки тому

    Michael Romeo is simply out of this world. I love his works in Symphony X.

  • @ProjectVastness
    @ProjectVastness 3 роки тому +1

    Finally Symphony X ^^ underrated God's!

  • @atthecore4560
    @atthecore4560 3 роки тому +1

    The first 5mins remind me of the first 5mins of Six Degrees by DT.
    Anyone else?

  • @longingbydesign
    @longingbydesign 3 роки тому

    btw, what is that outro music on all your videos? That's amazing, I need it!

    • @CriticalReactions
      @CriticalReactions  3 роки тому +2

      It's currently titled "melancholy_riff_2" lol. One day it'll be expanded to a full idea but right now it's just a single phrase.

  • @sophmys7653
    @sophmys7653 3 роки тому

    Looove this song

  • @jamiethomas3122
    @jamiethomas3122 Рік тому

    This was my way into prog metal. The composition, and melodic genius is to me unmatched in the genre, with both my favorite voice and guitarist. Pure genius. And i agree, it does bear some resemblence to circus maximus, the first chapter

  • @marcoantoniogarcia702
    @marcoantoniogarcia702 3 роки тому +2

    I'd highly recommend "The Sixth Extinction" by "Ayreon".
    I love Symphony X. They're such a talented band whose virtuocity is in pursuit of the songs, not to show off unnecesarily. Thank you!

  • @peterichards3261
    @peterichards3261 3 роки тому

    Nice review. Circus Maximus from Norway are awesome

  • @saschakamm9416
    @saschakamm9416 3 роки тому +1

    This my favourite song, my favourite band and my favourite singer
    The orchestral elements are very rare in Symphony X. Their classical influences are mostly some parts of classical pieces turned into metal. Or were because they turned into a more metal band with less prog and classical influences but they still are great
    The orchestral parts are written by the guitarist Michael Romeo
    Loved your reaction and analysis. I have absolutely no knowledge about music and I'm not a native speaker but was able to follow easily
    I would suggest the other 20 minute song they made "The Divine Wings of Tragedy". It's nearly as epic as this one
    I will check out Circus Maximus for sure. I have heard of them but never listened to them
    You have a new sub😉

  • @galgrunfeld9954
    @galgrunfeld9954 3 роки тому

    The first time I experienced it, I didn't go and try analyzing it.
    For me, on my first listen, all the elements that they put it, which in writing process and in the song itself are structured, have relations, characteristics - etc. - work together to form specific ideas and feelings - like an ominous danger (The Eye part), being tempted by beautiful yet killer creatures (the sirens part), returning home after the long journey and finding it in disarray and working to return it to the way it was (Champion of Ithaca) - all those thematic ideas - and the transitions between them - and the relations between them - in a way that was build as a story - first part A happens, then B, etc. - they all work together. So I didn't need to analyze choosing of scales, notice that the singer is using this texture or another, whether the riff is complex or simple, etc. - so I there was less cognitive load for me.
    I think that this kind of a song that's this long should be listened to twice for good review - one for the overall feeling and high-level structure, and secondly for the smaller details that make it up.

  • @thalleszope3883
    @thalleszope3883 3 роки тому +2

    Symphony x - Tryy Ooooveeeerrrr
    Every one - YEEEEESSSS

  • @chiefonesie428
    @chiefonesie428 3 роки тому +2

    You should react to Master of Darkness off of Arjen Anthony Lucassen’s Star One. Huge project with some of the best vocalists in metal.

  • @williambrock5975
    @williambrock5975 3 роки тому

    Pretty sure they all met at a music university. I saw a vote for Divine Wings of Tragedy for the next view, I love the song but I think the updated version of Masquerade might be a more easily digestible chunk of badass.

  • @yotambraunshtein9786
    @yotambraunshtein9786 3 роки тому +1

    Every symphonyX fan especially of those guitar solos y'all must listen the band scardust especially the songs tantibus & shards & tantibus 2

  • @stormreachfan5461
    @stormreachfan5461 3 роки тому +1

    I clicked like before the ad shows up

  • @christopherperkins1733
    @christopherperkins1733 2 роки тому

    You hit the nail on the head with your comment on it being nice that they don't feel the need to show off all the time. I love that. Yeah, some of their songs are long but to me they use it well. They have plenty of time to show off and plenty of time to catch you in more predictable hooky riffy sections and what you have as an end result is a well blended song.

    • @CriticalReactions
      @CriticalReactions  2 роки тому +1

      "Well blended" is a perfect adjective for this. They know when to hook you in and when to blow your mind and they do a great job weaving those two ideas together.

    • @christopherperkins1733
      @christopherperkins1733 2 роки тому

      @@CriticalReactions I love when people agree with me about what's great about particular music so thank you for that. 😂
      It doesn't happen often with this band. Many call their early-mid stuff too "progy" and many others that call it not "progy' enough. Hope you decide to react to more though I may have just missed them if you did.

  • @stereoreservoir
    @stereoreservoir 2 роки тому

    Damn, what a fun piece!

  • @paravarium
    @paravarium 3 роки тому +1

    An iconic part of my early 20s. (36)

  • @stevejpm1
    @stevejpm1 2 роки тому +1

    Russell Allen amazing voice.

  • @jogaran_
    @jogaran_ 3 роки тому

    Happy to hear your Circus Maximus recommendation! You should check out their song Architect of Fortune.

    • @CriticalReactions
      @CriticalReactions  3 роки тому +1

      Sadly I only ever checked out their debut album but I would love to revisit them by checking out their newer stuff. I'll definitely be having them in the channel soon.

    • @jogaran_
      @jogaran_ 3 роки тому

      @@CriticalReactions first and second albums are very similar to Symphony X, but the newer ones have more these "modern prog" vibe.

    • @CriticalReactions
      @CriticalReactions  3 роки тому +1

      I've been enjoying some of the more modern prog stuff as well so I'm even more stoked to check out their newer stuff and see how they've evolved.

  • @thundersnow93
    @thundersnow93 2 роки тому

    I really like "Through the Looking Glass" track, which is a take on Alice in Wonderland. It's another epic at 13 minutes long split into 3 or 4 distinct segments.

  • @rjonboy7608
    @rjonboy7608 3 роки тому

    Music is playful. That's why this band is one of my favorites. They are musically challenging and deep, but in a fun way that makes you happy to listen. It is far from "good time music" but it is good time music anyway. Before I was introduced to Symphony X I thought only Iron Maiden had such a varied catalog to fit my every mood.

  • @spike32887
    @spike32887 3 роки тому +1

    This track could be the score on Lord of the rings! I loved watching you take the journey I first took right after this masterpiece came out 🤘

  • @erikrevier4053
    @erikrevier4053 3 роки тому

    My favorite song of all time, well tied with Octivarium by DT. Little fact for you since you identified the Circus maximus similarities right away, Circus Maximus actually started as a Dream Theater/Symphony X cover band and The First Chapter is their own homage or take of The Odyssey. Good ear.
    Def check out more Symphony X, they don't always use the symphony elements but when they do its fantastic, Michael Romeo is their guitarist and main songwriting and he also writes and programs all the symphony elements. Dig in, they have a lot to unpack as a band. All their albums are different as well.

    • @CriticalReactions
      @CriticalReactions  3 роки тому +1

      That's some excellent context that really helps place these bands in metal's history. It's kinda wild that Circus Maximus captured so much of The Odyssey's essence for The 1st Chapter without straight up ripping them off.

    • @FongoOngo
      @FongoOngo 3 роки тому

      @@CriticalReactions On another note I think it was highly appreciated by Symphony X since Circus Maximus opened for them on an european tour back in 2008.

  • @giacomofavitta
    @giacomofavitta 3 роки тому

    Oh man, you should do the reaction to the last piece of Apple Sauce, Polybius!

  • @rafahuerta5101
    @rafahuerta5101 2 роки тому

    Ahuevo ésas si son colaboraciones

  • @Bikonito
    @Bikonito 3 роки тому +3

    Dude, you have GOT to listen to their song The Divine Wings of Tragedy. Another epic clocking in at 21 minutes long!

    • @TSPH1992
      @TSPH1992 2 роки тому

      21 minutes without bullshit

  • @xcforce9067
    @xcforce9067 3 роки тому +4

    Thats right, the restrain is part of what makes this song great. Complexity for complexity's sake has ruined lot of modern prog bands. Good songwriting is the fundament on which you need the build the complexity, not the other way around.
    I am going over to check out the 1st Chapter now.

    • @xcforce9067
      @xcforce9067 3 роки тому

      After 30 min: Yes very similar. It is essentially a The Odyssey knockoff. 😂
      I am not sure the songwriting is there though. Particularly vocal parts. Allen is a total beast on The Odyssey.

  • @swapticsounds
    @swapticsounds 3 роки тому

    Shared your reaction on facebook now. By the way, do you sometimes hear Freddy Mercury in his half-gritty vocals? And when he is using more grit, it´s more Ronnie James Dio, who he names as his main influence. Arjen Lucasson (Ayreon) worked with him on one of his albums and he says Russell is the best singer in the world at the moment. I personally say he shares the throne with Devin Townsend.

  • @semdezeeuw1203
    @semdezeeuw1203 Рік тому +1

    The beginning could be used for a zelda game, no questions asked. Right?

  • @chriss.8582
    @chriss.8582 3 роки тому +3

    For the uninitiated, this beautiful song is a direct interpretation of Homer's ancient Greek epic by the same title. In much the same way as the Virgin Steele three disc, two album interpretation of Aeschylus' , "The House of Atreus", these pieces, in my humble opinion, represent the absolute pinnacle of progressive metal in the late 90s/early 2000s. "The House of Atreus" Act I and Act II in particular has an undeniable mirror in today's "cancel culture" epidemic that we see happening all around us.

  • @fiiuslair
    @fiiuslair 3 роки тому

    I'm a bit late to this but the end section sounds familiar because (at least to me) it sounds like Rainbows Street Of Dreams.

  • @Worshipsatch
    @Worshipsatch 2 роки тому

    Awesome reaction ! Reading a short summary of Homers Odyssey or tennysons Ulysses helps in getting this song better...

  • @mangafreak923
    @mangafreak923 3 роки тому +5

    I'm so glad you chose this song, but sadly as much as I adore The Odyssey, it comes in second place when compared to The Divine Wings of Tragedy.

    • @chriss.8582
      @chriss.8582 3 роки тому

      Here, here! The first Symphony X song I ever heard was "Of Sins and Shadows", but "The Odyssey" was the first album of theirs that I purchased. That said, I think Divine Wings is overall, probably the superior album of the two, in my opinion of course.

  • @YsAbTones
    @YsAbTones 3 роки тому

    Great !! i'll tell ya this is the best band ever ahah ! i would recommand all the albums ! ahah or maybe next "on the edge of forever" from them also !

  • @laportedart
    @laportedart 3 роки тому

    Precious Tip: it is a very different and much more rich experience if you've read the Odyssey by Homer or, at least, seen The Odyssey, the movie from 1997. It is up to you to pursue it or not : )

  • @ScarsUnseen
    @ScarsUnseen 3 роки тому +1

    If you want another band that is great at incorporating orchestral elements into their music, check out Virgin Black. They are more downbeat than Symphony X, incorporating a doom metal feel instead of prog. In the last trilogy of albums (collectively titled "Requiem") they made use of the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, with the last of the trilogy, "Pianissimo"(the previous two being titled "Mezzo Forte" and "Fortissimo" respectively), being entirely orchestra and singing. Highly recommended.

  • @sergeyremontnikoff9978
    @sergeyremontnikoff9978 3 роки тому

    Как, оказывается, может быть приятно от факта, что где-то далеко за океаном волосатый ютубер в наушниках кивает головой в такт прекраснейшей музыке, masterpiec`у, как на мой взгляд. Это заставляет меня так же нацепить "уши" и, закрыв глаза, кивать в унисон вместе с ним. И пусть я не понимаю и четверти слов песни: мне хватает одного только названия композиции и душещипательных звуков Симфониксов. Сама музыка рисует в моём воображении морские просторы и смертельные трудности, которые конечно же преодолеет Одиссей и его команда. Многие пишут, что SX very unranked, недооценена и это правда. Как по мне SX одна из лучших представителей прогметалла, а Миша Ромео - Моцарт современности. Dear Bryan, please make reacts on Michael Romeo solo album - War of the Worlds, Pt. 1\ Believe
    Respect и уважуха

  • @yvonbissonette3685
    @yvonbissonette3685 3 роки тому

    Do anyone know about "Ulysse Odyssey"? This song is about this history.

  • @noisypinkbubble875
    @noisypinkbubble875 3 роки тому

    oh my god i'm so ready to strap in for this song! I used to love Symphony X and I've lost interest for the most part, aside from this song/album.
    Definitely gonna check out Circus Maximus if it's like this song in particular!

  • @saxoffender
    @saxoffender 3 роки тому

    A lot of people have been getting this confused....Michael Romeo actually wrote and orchestrated all of the orchestral sounds and used a software that mimics the sounds incredibly well for the recording...it might’ve been Garritan, not sure tbh, but it is not an orchestra of actual musicians!

  • @TheVoltrom
    @TheVoltrom 3 роки тому

    3:53 great band