Chronos Zero: A Prelude to Emptiness - The Tears Path: Chapter Alpha

A lengthy title like A Prelude to Emptiness - The Tears Path: Chapter Alpha leads me to believe that we have quite a concept album on our hands or that the concept is going to sink this debut release.

I feel this music is intriguging enough that I wish I had a lyric sheet and more background to get into the concept. Progressive Metal through every twist and turn, and if you are a cynic, every cliche is used by Chronos Zero throughout this release. It would be so much easier to say "pretentious and embarassing" but the songwriting is engaging. There are frequent female vocals to offset the primary male vocals, a very convincing Russel Allen-type. The heavy metal shares many Symphony X-isms; classical-sounding guitar and synth solos, chugging palm-muted rhythms syncopated with the double bass.

The primary gripe I have about production is the drum sound; specifically the snare. I think the snare is triggered ala Images and Words and once you hear it you can't unhear it. Everything else is top-notch prog-metal quality.

There is a grandiosity reminiscent of Ayreon - but less cheesy. These tunes are in your face most of the time. There aren't many quiet, reflective moments. Plenty of melodies to be found between the vocals and keyboards. This is an example of a release that will take time to steep requiring multiple listens but not because you have to, but because you want to.

Track Listing
1. Spires
2. Breath of Chaos
3. Shadow's Lair
4. Lost Hope, New Hope Pt. 1
5. Lost Hope, New Hope Pt. 2
6. The Creation
7. Sigh of Damnation
8. Hearts Into Darkness
9. At The Gates of Time (Hollowland's Prelude)
10. Sorrowful Fate (The Composer's Nigh Pt. III & IV)

Added: December 8th 2013
Reviewer: Ryan Good
Score:
Related Link: Band Facebook Page
Hits: 2579
Language: english

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