Classical Composer Reacts to The Odyssey (Symphony X) | The Daily Doug (Episode 70)

#Reaction #SymphonyX #TheOdyssey #SymphonyXReaction
In this episode of #TheDailyDoug, I'm reacting to The Odyssey by Symphony X. I loved their storytelling and orchestral ideas!
Reference Video: • The Odyssey

[@hellwalker76]

They aren't the band with the budget for real orchestra. Almost 30 years in the business, certainly loved, but not recognized by the public in general. Still, one of my favorites bands of all time.

[@brunocosta6849]

Although I understand your point, nowadays bands don't really need a big budget to create a vivid realsitic orchestra with only a computer. May I interest you in giving a listen to Wilderun Veil of Imagination album? They are super "underground" with certainly a very lwo budget (have a said that they are unsigned?) and their orchestration "realness" is, in my personal opinion, on the levels of bands like Septicflesh that indeed use a real orchestra

[@mordraug]

@@brunocosta6849 that is true, but the song is over 20 years old at this point nearly, I would say that in the late 90s and early 00s it was not as easy to create a "vivid realistic orchestra" while being low on the budget if you get what I mean...personally, I do not mind the synth here, it gives it this vintage video game feel or the like. They could have recreated it though with the real orchestra. Thanks for the tip though, may check Wilderun out, since I love SepticFlesh.

[@brunocosta6849]

@@mordraug Yes, 20 years ago that was unimaginable! But the top comment said "they arent", so I just gave my opinion based on current technology. I just listened to this band latest release, and indeed the orchestra has much more realism, almost seamless. PS: You will love Wilderun, 200% garanteed

[@aycandamal2807]

@@brunocosta6849 such a masterpiece of an album, veil of imagination that is. Nice to see some recognition they truly deserve. The lack of means to include an orchestra was a factor but besides that, keyboard players were indeed taking advantage of the conditions back then and introduce their chops just like that. Dream Theater did the same. I believe it was SFAM or 6doit, but then with Octavarium, they introduced real orchestration. Anyway, SX are great and they do deserve a lot more recognition. Brilliant band.

[@mposh]

I saw SymX at Gigantour in 2005, and open for Opeth in 2006 during the Ghost Reveries tour, and they closed their set with The Odyssey.

[@alvaropita3487]

Russell Allen is one of the greatest rock singers of all time.

[@martingimenez339]

He overpowers Dio, Halford and Freddie so I think he is probably the GOAT.

[@JeffreyTheTaylor]

Best frontman I've ever seen live. Total command of the stage.

[@frankcastle4715]

@@martingimenez339 so does alex terrible but i dont see you blabbering about him

[@alvaropita3487]

@@JeffreyTheTaylor Yeah, great frontman. One of the best with Bruce, Coverdale and Mercury.

[@martingimenez339]

Frank Castle Are you really comparing that growling tasteless brute with Russell? LOL...whatever.

[@psytron939]

Its been almost 20 years since this album... This calls for a remaster with a full orchestra

[@troyanotz]

I can patreon that!

[@gillesroure]

Amen!

[@MrMowzy]

Hell yes Brotha!!

[@superbanhaman]

Dude please lets get this started

[@unknownapproach9410]

It so neeeds it, I loved Symphony X in my youth and saw them live multiple times but I can’t listen to their studio albums now, both V and Odyssey need a re-recording with proper orchestration and mixing. I feel like Ayreon has ruined my appreciation for my childhood metal albums

[@Randyolsson]

Imagine a re-recording of The Odyssey with a real orchestra. I would back that kickstarter 100%.

[@derekgesuelle1627]

Yes please!

[@Utubesuxmycock]

Live!

[@bcbitchkkv]

@@Utubesuxmycock Nah, I want to have rhythm guitars and harmonies on the recording :P I still have a small dream of a "modern Symphony X album" written like 1995-2002, but with 2007-2015's production.. one can dream.

[@aymanhazim4639]

Yes please

[@RyderLComics]

Absolutely.

[@PabloSaavedra84]

THRIIIIIIIUMPHAAAANT, CHAMPION OF ITHACAAAAAA!!! Always chills

[@MetalGamer666]

Every time!

[@pantherhaste4554]

SAME.

[@rifloca]

Same forme!!!

[@paleposter]

always

[@KordeMo1]

The most powerful eargasm for me is that part by far! Too good

[@Kylora2112]

So yeah, Michael Romeo is the guitarist, composer, AND producer for Symphony X which is why he's so prominent in the mix (it's not quite a "showcase" band for him, but he has a tendency to put the guitar up front in the mix). And I can understand why you don't enjoy double bass drumming, but that's just a power/speed metal thing (Symphony X can best be described as "technical power metal"). It sounds like cheap early 00s midi orchestrations because that's what it is :) Symphony X was still a relatively small band at the time, so yeah, not having a budget to include a full orchestra makes sense. But it's still good enough to suspend your disbelief and hear "real" brass, strings, and winds in your mind's ear.

[@jettrainbow]

yeah, there's definitely no double kick in Thrash, Death or Black metal LOL

[@wastelander1015]

I wouldn't call 2002's Symphony X a "small band". They were already an established prog/metal band by then. Still, being a established band in that genre doesn't automatically grants them a big budget to make an album, so i understand the inclusion of midi instead of a real orchestra. I still think they made a terrific job, since the classical elements are there as a background, not to overtake the prog/metal elements. ;)

[@shallowlord]

It was recorded in Michaels homestudio..

[@martingimenez339]

Damn I was about to write everything you've just said, I guess I don't have to do it now lol...

[@Vimalth]

@@jettrainbow Of course, but Doug's been listening mostly to power/speed metal up until now.

[@GuiAntonioli]

This is the most underrated song ever. Thank you for this review, it brought tears to my eyes seeing someone who's not a metalhead appreciating this masterpiece.

[@palonazo]

From the most underrated underfinanced band ever. These guys have second jobs FCS!

[@planetcaravan2925]

Underpaid understated

[@clumsyoctopus5614]

Drummer: * plays lots of fills, odd time signatures, tries to match Michael Romeo's guitar playing * Doug: ....... Drummer: * plays 16 bars of double bass * Doug: "You can play something else there drummers!" 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@suffer1982]

Same with the Dream Theater reactions :) Don't give him Divine heresy for reaction :D

[@writingmetal]

Exactly!😆 I'm sure the drums are his least favourite instrument, he didn't appreciate any of it

[@Maggai]

I really hope he grows to enjoy double bass, eventually he'll end up reacting to a song with non stop 16th note kick throughout the song lol! Double kick gives so much power and drive! And it also can groove a lot! Love it!

[@raultifrea5549]

I'd love to see an honest reaction to Infant Annihilator from him, something long, like at least 10 minutes long. Their rhythmic competence outweighs the need for too much melody, Lyrics are not needed*. *read recommended :)) Try The kingdom of sitteth lonely beneath thine hollowed heavens Or Behold the kingdom of the wretched undying Again, lyrics not recommended:)

[@matrixprogrock]

Spoken like a drummer....

[@mattirwin6015]

Another good song from them is Symphony X- Divine Wings of Tragedy, my personal favorite.

[@Mr88Shadows]

Absolutely, Divine Wings of Tragedy is their best song in my oppinion. Would love a reaction to that masterpiece.

[@agony664]

Or "The Accolade".

[@Hy-jg8ow]

@@agony664 Or Egypt.

[@rjculliford]

Or Through the Looking Glass =)

[@DavidGuitarIbanez]

or Communion and the Oracle

[@mumenrider862]

When I found Symphony X, I knew finally found what I was looking for.

[@Aquila81]

1) "The Divine Wings of tragedy" 2) "Through the looking glass" Other two Symphony X mega-suites that truly deserve a Doug's reaction!!!! Please 🙏

[@paulooliveira3453]

Yes very cool

[@Lithuania8634]

Tbh those are both better than The odyssey

[@brunofunnie]

Another reaction for what? He would say the same "nah too much double pedal", "I would mix differently, lower the guitar a little bit and emphasis orchestra", I rather listen the guitars and have just a tip of orchestra on the top

[@SyX512]

21:45 "Where are they going" They are setting up to the most powerful heavy metal riff of all time!

[@colerodocker8894]

Ayreon - The Day That The World Breaks Down

[@ibd1977]

+2 but must be the official video version with Arjen's production notes.

[@rtrooperw8115]

LaBrie!!!!🙏🏻🤟🏻and Tommy!

[@michaelheinrich5219]

That one and Everybody Dies (live) just because, you know, it has lasers and stuff.. And a surprise here and there.

[@emilianovicentini8755]

here you will find Russell Allen, the lead singer of Symphony X as the "president" if I remember correctly.

[@Amadeusmyth1]

Ayreon! This! A million times this!

[@Easyflux]

"I'd love to hear this with a real orchestra" I've wanted nothing more for the past 20 years man..

[@toddegoldberg]

But hey for being produced essentially by one guy in a jersey basement its pretty darn good.

[@relaxingsounds1386]

That's literally still how he works today. I'm good friends with the bass player.

[@ericedmunds9488]

Fuckin’ A!

[@Altropos]

@@relaxingsounds1386 Tell them that we definitely want to contribute to a re-recording of this song with a full-blown orchestra.

[@chilepeulla]

wandering bass yeah man, tell them that people want to contribute for a remastered version of the odyssey with a real orchestra, with patreon, go fund me and stuff like that, it’s very easy to do that now

[@princeLaharl2]

Exactly!

[@PhilBot4OOO]

That first harmony of the word 'Triumphant' soaring in at 28:56 is one of my all time favourite sounds/moments in music. It brings such bliss to my ears every time without fail!

[@victorgallegos4239]

Has to be one my favorite passages as well. I hadn’t listened to this song in about 10 years & it's almost like hearing it for the first time.

[@GaldirEonai]

Best moment in any live performance of this is the crowd starting to sing along when that line comes in.

[@JasonParadise]

First video of yours I've seen. Love your analysis. Great hearing new ears take on something I've listened to the last 15 years. Symphony X is one of the best live bands I've seen. Can wholeheartedly recommened checking out more of their stuff. Can't wait to watch more on the channel! Kick ass, dude! 🤘

[@elex621]

Literally found myself here right after watching your latest upload hahaha

[@whahappend8222]

Coming from an outside perspective, and especially as a composer, I get why the constant double kick parts in metal rub you the wrong way or seem redundant. But you have to understand, that 16th note double time feel that locks in with the guitar riff is pretty essential in metal. It's definitely not the only thing you can play along to those kinds of rhythms, but generally it's to give a part some forward momentum, or just to get some headbanging going. It's especially important when it's a section sandwiched between 4 bars of 17/16 whole tone riffing and a soaring string part. It's what keeps the track rooted in metal. Would you want to listen to a classical piece where there's a constant barrage of timpani for extended periods? Probably not, but the context is different. Anyways, love your videos.

[@surfeit5910]

I always felt sorry for the drummer. He was essentially trying to keep up with Michael for most of these songs, since he had to figure out how to fit the drums in with the guitar and strings that were already fully written. I know, having been a guitarist in a Prog Rock band, our drummer would sometimes come up with an entire song already written and it was difficult and really unenjoyable to add my own creative flare to something he had already written. Would Neil Peart have played something more complex? Definitely. But I feel the flaw here is mostly the writing process for the song overall.

[@lowdz68]

I’m a metal fan and I feel the same. I dislike a lot of power metal because of the constant double bass drums.

[@whahappend8222]

@@lowdz68 depends on the band/song/genre to me. There are things that would be lame in the context of a Sabbath tune, but great in an Immolation song.

[@segfault_000]

Yup. If double-bass is something that really bothers you, it's best to just stay away from the genre rather than constantly complain about it.

[@SerHenkan]

I don't want to bash the drummers out there, but if your only solution all the time to writing a drum beat that works is to mash double bass drum, then maybe the problem is the drummer. However, I would argue that the dude writing whatever riff/melody/chord progression should have an inkling of an idea of what everything should sound like, and could thus give that input to the drummer.

[@meshzzizk]

Michael Romeo even said in interviews that he got feedback while mixing that the guitar was too loud, to which he replied, “No, it isn’t.” 😂

[@danielsimard6506]

I could only dream of seeing Symphony X playing this song with an actual orchestra!!

[@relaxingsounds1386]

that would indeed be cool

[@TSPH1992]

Maybe with their next album

[@yannickboivin9856]

PAS DE DOUTE LE REVE

[@DrakodanSRL]

You HAVE to check out The Accolade from The Divine Wings of Tragedy if you want to hear how sophisticated their instrumentation can be. That one section where the arrangement gets more and more layered as it progresses, god it gives me chills every time.

[@Asgath]

Good god The Accolade is a beautiful track. What a band.

[@bojanmatic024]

Yes, I would love to hear what he would say about The Accolade!

[@nooaparkatti4571]

As a drummer the bashing on double kicks kind of pisses me off xD. I get why someone might think it monotonous but I feel it is important in creating a sense of urgency and forward drive. Plus double bass is also really fun to play and that is what music should be about! :)

[@gekonst]

The thing is that it shouldn't be like that all the time cause that's when it gets monotonous. You cannot have urgency all the time. Some power metal bands/songs spend a whole song's duration with double kicks. It's a recipe that leads to the urgent need for paracetamol sooner or later.

[@Asto508]

Don't worry, metal fans love double bass.

[@Maggai]

Well said, Nooa! I agree completely!

[@BassGoBomb]

It gets me (not really .. :-)) that a double bass is a 'kin great acoustic bass .. a piece of musical furniture. The sound of the double bass pedal could be just a subjective: I don't like it... thing. It is for me. But, yeah, the total metal heads love it; good for 'moshing' too

[@alexandre_am]

Like it or not, it is power metal signature

[@scottkoppinger2595]

Dream Theater - A Change of Seasons, check that out for sure

[@Danceforthedevil]

Octavarium live with the orchestra would be great as well

[@Mr88Shadows]

Six Degrees of Inner Turbulence live with orchestra, from the "Score" DVD.

[@Dilly137]

yess the score live!! or illumination theory

[@scottkoppinger2595]

@@markcurtis3596 A change of seasons is better :)

[@wolfsonggames4988]

There's double bass in that song. It would trigger him.

[@nesguillen]

24 minute long song, 30 second of double bass drums and is the only thing you say about this amazing drummer???? c'mon Doug. Jason Rullo kicks it during the entire song give some respect to him.

[@cristianluchian404]

lol

[@maksympimenow1992]

We metalheads love double bass drum

[@TheFinePlayer]

That wasn't directed to this drummer specifically. He just said he doesn't like double bass in general, no matter who the drummer is.

[@BuzzAldrinUFO]

​@@maksympimenow1992double bass drum is when you don't have the groove to play something else interesting

[@felipecampos3045]

HOLLY SHIT, i did NOT expected that one, but talk about a good surprise, tks for that, try divine wings of tragedy next if you want more

[@Mr88Shadows]

+1, absolutely. Divine Wings of Tragedy is their Magnum Opus.

[@Kras125Djg]

+1

[@diogosp10]

Up

[@Hy-jg8ow]

+1

[@Boris_67]

+1 Absolutely !

[@nudsh]

Just remember with neoclassical prog, you are listening to metal musicians writing orchestra, not orchestra composers writing neo-prog metal. The Odyssey is a masterpiece of progressive rock, it sends you an a long journey, tells a clear story and ends with tender sweetness. It really is a special piece of music.

[@Jacobruxo]

said everything bro!

[@inakiaraluze4528]

Amen.

[@perpetual8960]

Everytime I listen to this song, I feel like I'm on a ride at Disneyland!

[@EdwardFlores]

sad that classical composers cannot get the real taste of drumms... that drummer is amazing actually

[@DistantEarlyWarning]

I agree. Jason is so underrated

[@inelovnord7566]

This Band is unreal so magical. ❤

[@shredhackstv5136]

Micheal Romeo is an underrated genius. His Dark Chapter is one of the greatest electric guitar work of all time. Hae lack the budget from the get go, but manage to create great music in my opinion.

[@melodelay2484]

I could listen infinitely to the dark chapter it's magical !!

[@TheJohannes44]

His latest album, War of the Worlds Pt1, is also an absolute masterpiece.

[@Simulacrum1310]

I've watched him singing this EXACT SONG in 2019 in Italy. I was at most 5 meters from him. During the last part of Odissey (you know which part) his voce overpowered the PA! His "real" voice was projected so well that i could discern the PA voice from the real one. Mindfucking. That guy could kill you with a shout in your ear

[@jlcreations9990]

Michael Romeo is a noted music genius. I say this knowing that his creative potential echoes in all the songs, but it is also obvious that the whole band is formed by masters who produce a sound so authentic, clear and emotional that it never gets boring, they are timeless works. It is not a mere metal band, it is an orchestra contained in five musicians.

[@andykereztury1450]

Hi Doug, you would totally dig Symphony X's 'V: The New Mythology Suite"... awesome concept album, peppered with music from Verdi, Mozart, Bach, Bartok! Standout songs from the album are "Communion and the Oracle" and "Egypt".

[@infojester3318]

My favorite Symphony X record

[@ram11198]

Love both those tunes

[@Galacticaxis]

My favorite of their albums, absolutely just perfection.

[@HugoMaradiaga]

Doug... Please do V...

[@musiciohann]

Oh yes!!!

[@Vreth6]

Russel Allen is a great vocalist. He does both Metal and Rock really well, and has been in many various projects over the years. Saw Symphony X live 2019 with him and he just killed it live.

[@GalvaoRJ]

28:16 "We're going home!!!" Then the fist thing Russel Allen sings "So this is home!!" hahahahaha!

[@xTOMMYGRx]

Hahaha😆😆

[@Utubesuxmycock]

Lmfao

[@mortisnoctu]

This is my ALL TIME favorite band! I like to say they are "thousands of years in the making".

[@scrambis]

hell yeah dude

[@Tarwen]

I'd like to see you react to Ayreon - The Day That The World Breaks Down as I'd be interested to hear your thoughts

[@deepblack3852]

Agreed 😀

[@ibd1977]

+2 but must be the official video version with Arjen's production notes.

[@barbaravance6774]

@@ibd1977 Agreed!

[@andreacefaro2722]

Agreed

[@RudyBleeker]

Doug should definitely do that one

[@jeyycie3656]

Hi Doug, thank you for listening to my (and others) request over Symphony X ! Just to inform you Symphony X never did a real orchestra arrangement of their songs unfortunately. In their discography, there is only one other long song like this one, which is "The Devine Wings of Tragedy" from the 1997 album of the same name. (Which depicts the bring of the apocalypse) Symphony X has evolved over the years, and made references from many well known classical pieces (video showing some exemples kzbin.info/www/bejne/gni3Z4CBp6l9r5Y ) The last three of their albums are a lot more modern prog metal, the old albums more reminiscent of those classical insperations (for a metal band) I can recomand (other than "The Devine Wings of Tragedy"), "The Accolade", "Egypt" or "Paradise Lost" to name a few. Thank you very much, have a good time.

[@jimmyggs91]

Upvoted. I knew Symphony X used some classic music excerpts on their songs but that video showing the references is super neat!

[@batweed]

I second your thanks for the reaction as im in the "and others" group that requested repeatedly.. Sadly, i think you've just reacted to the best track in their discography.. Do check on The Accolade, The Accolade II, and The Divine wings of Tragedy

[@9UWmember]

As I've understood it, Symphony X is more or less an independent band and they are working with a very small budget compared to bands like Nightwish. But on the upside, they can do basically whatever they like without any interference.

[@SadoSir]

For me, the latest album Nevermore is their best and Especially the song Nevermore. But I really think they should re-record this song with a real orchestra or at least use modern day orchestral samples since they’ve come a long way sounding much better. But I think that’s really cool how they’ve evolved and just doing what they like and that they can speak to different audiences. I saw them live and the journey through their discography was an absolute blast and the musicianship was just stellar.

[@DeagleLas]

I thought no one had posted the video yet, I was wrong. Sorry for double posting it!

[@erikvaldur3334]

Years ago I rented a rehearsal room in DDs' (Overkill ) studio. I was directly across the hall from Symphony Xs' room. A couple times a year these guys would rehearse for a tour. We stopped playing and enjoyed a free concert for an hour or two. Kinda hard to play again those nights after hearing these guys smoke the whole studio. Mike, the guitarist writes all their music in his home studio. His wife is a classical pianist who has done a few cameos in their music from what I heard. She may help in the studio also. It's Mikes' baby all the way but he's really only up front in the mix occasionally as far as I'm concerned. It's still very much a band sound in general. Nice guys too. Edit, After thinking about it for a few minutes I think I'm mistaken in regards to Mikes' wife possibly playing on a few pieces for them. I think it was her brothers band, Exxplorer that she played with on occasion. Exxplorer was a killer local Jersey band back in the 80s.

[@plasticuproject]

This makes no sense. How are you this freaking awesome?? I've been waiting years for someone to do what you are doing on KZbin. Thanks so much Doug! Keep up the good work, we appreciate it!!

[@HurtboxTV]

Sweet! I was waiting for this! It should be noted that the orchestral arrangements were done by Michael Romeo the Guitarist. The Album was also recorded in 2002, so they were VST's.

[@HurtboxTV]

There also is a keyboardist in the band so yes the synth parts are played by a musician.

[@relaxingsounds1386]

@@HurtboxTV Romeo does all the orchestral programming.

[@ctschwei]

The kickdrum and the distorted guitars in Metal are essential cliches. It's like the Clave in Latin music or the walking bass in Jazz. It wouldn't be Metal without it.

[@elgranbatera]

Metal doesn´t need a double kickdrum, that´s something that drummers with no new ideas invented to create something more agressive.

[@Jason17300]

@@elgranbatera ok boomer

[@elgranbatera]

@@Jason17300 playing with dynamics is the best thing drummers have, and with the double kick you just can't

[@JamesWaton]

it can add a lot of power to the riffs, plus when it's done live it feels like you're getting hit by an 18 wheeler. love double kick

[@elgranbatera]

@@JamesWaton then go to the studio with the Wheeler, you're playing music, not emulating a machine gun

[@Bob-vp3dc]

Your disdain for the double-kick always makes me laugh as a metalhead 😂

[@charliemcfarling4219]

Yeah... he listens to prog and then bitches about the double-kick which is used extensively by every prog rock band on the planet.

[@fsedwuncleriii4190]

So much emotion in this song, takes you on a rollercoaster of feelings rapidly

[@wordswordseverywhere9113]

The Divine Wings of Tragedy

[@SirAegis]

YES

[@SirAegis]

ALL THAT ALBUM ACTUALLY

[@ziadramman]

Do it!

[@AdrianoRibeiro123]

Please

[@MattG68]

TOTALLY. The Divine Wings of Tragedy (title track) is like this. Romeo and company are amazing. Glad you enjoyed it, man!

[@theHalta]

Blind Guardian - Wheel of Time is a must!

[@DreamCheaters]

drinking some beer while listening symphony x, awesome! cheers bro!

[@GalvaoRJ]

14:32 "so you can't never get too confortable" this is Symphony X in it's essence lol

[@filipeselvatici]

Another great reaction! I would suggest you to try "Carolina IV" from Angra, brazilian power metal band. It was recorded in 1996 and have a lot of influences of brazilian traditional music and also european classics. It's very very interesting.

[@pedroteran5885]

It is.

[@alexandre_am]

And also great double bass drumming, which you would not like

[@patrickchacabum]

I would love to see you reacting to "Carolina IV - Angra" someday 🇧🇷

[@jesleycaceresmarcelino1812]

It Will be interesting, maybe react to holy land too

[@silasrodrigues4838]

UP

[@joaofortunato2213]

Same here.

[@leitaohop7]

Shaman's fairy tale would be interesting.

[@superbanhaman]

YES PLEASE so underrated

[@ibanezleftyclub]

Finally, really not seeing anyone do reactions to Symphony X, this is their Opus, I saw them perform this NOTE FOR NOTE LIVE. jaw dropping.

[@Lithuania8634]

Octavarium from Dream Theater is a must listen Which is also 24 minutes long by the way

[@ManiacTobi]

This.

[@machrider3223]

SPECIALLY the live scrore version, that has a live orchestra acompanying

[@Lithuania8634]

@@machrider3223 Yes! I totally agree with that!

[@SirJack]

Yes best idea!

[@vaquero802]

Octavarium?? I do not thing so. A chenge of season Is so much better!!!

[@MrKMarky]

My favorite bit of the song and your reaction: 28:16 - Notice how you said "We're going home!" and the first line in the lyrics at 28:25 "So this is home". I think you weren't prepared to the kind of journey this track is supposed to take you on, which is amazing to see because you couldn't predict any of it, yet you felt it! You nailed it when you said it's about storytelling and that's exactly why you get those sharp turns in scales and keys. It's supposed to be all over the place and take you on this crazy ride, with a complex story and every instrument plays a role in that. That's why it's a masterpiece.

[@josephtamborra1321]

Amazing band! Mike Romeo (the guitar player) usually writes most of the music, even the keyboard parts, then the keyboard player plays them on album. I grew up in the same town as Mike and took guitar lessons from him out of either my home or his.

[@paulhaullussy8662]

Symphony X is my most favorite band. They can play all their stuff live!! Love them and I like all the surprises. Nice video!

[@jjgdenisrobert]

One influence I haven’t heard you point out to date is Kansas.

[@chriss.8582]

I met the guys from Symphony X after a small show they did on Long Island in 2003 or 2004 and asked Russell if he was influenced by Kansas because I heard some similarities in his vocal style. He told me that it was actually Michael Romeo who was more influenced by bands like Kansas and that he was really influenced by Zeppelin and Sabbath when he was young. Probably where some of that bluesy style comes from with Russell. Thought you might like to read a little inside baseball from a long-time fan.

[@RogerSullivanNOLA]

"Triumphant Champion of Ithaca!!" As someone with more of a metal background it's really cool to hear a classical person's perspective on this. It was recorded in 2002, and I remember thinking the orchestral sounds were state of the art at the time, but yeah, they do sound dated now. For metal, I think the guitars are where they need to be...they are the source of metal's power...also the guitarist being Michael Romeo, I want to hear every detail. I've always noticed the text painting stuff too. When he sings about being betrayed by the sea, the music totally reflects that, IMO (melody rises and falls like waves). For my money, it's a very, very impressive merger of prog/power-metal and orchestral film score style music. I don't know of any metal bands that do it better, especially considering they composed it themselves. They are a pretty underground band, so I doubt they had the resources to hire a real orchestra to record it.

[@Marctull66]

Yes, having an orchestra is extremely expensive, even one from Central Europe (where it's much less expensive - or it was 15 years ago at least... this is probably changing). It has to be subsided in some way or another...

[@worldtriper1956]

Mr Russell Allen, one of the best in the universe.

[@hoon_sol]

Harmonically it seems like they've intuitively gone more for counterpoint in the style of Bach, with individual voices harping on the different themes and responding to each other, meeting harmonically where it's suitable, rather than consciously structuring the harmonic progressions. Also, 25:55 sounds like a throwback to Uranus by Holst. And also, the key changes in the end is because Odysseus still hasn't revealed his identity. He first sings about Minerva guiding his way (although this is of course from Roman mythology, but they've taken some liberties, previously in the song they also sing "behold the sea and winds of Jove", which is also Roman, later using the correct Greek when singing "the gift of wind by Zeus concealed") while in the guise of a beggar, and when he first sings "triumphant, champion of Ithaca", he's still in disguise, because immediately following that he sings about the contest of valor to determine who gets to be the suitor of his queen, where none of the suitors even manage to string his bow, upon which he enters and easily wins the contest, which is when he reveals who he is. He might be home, but the story isn't over until he's righted all the wrongs and has let the gods sing his song. The very last key changes are when he's finally accomplished this, realizes it, and sings about how he now has returned to make his dream come true (rather than dreaming about how returning would make his dreams come true).

[@grggarro1]

A good artist to review would be Luca Turilli on Rhapsody or any of his projects, he's really creative when it comes to mixing classical and newer styles

[@TheCrimsonIdol987]

THANK YOU. Nobody gives them enough credit.

[@Xe4ro]

Luca is so good when you want some good pumping shredding. Very „feel good“ stuff. : )

[@Cayoalbuquerque]

WOW!!!! Never in a million years would I have guessed that you would do this one! One of my favorite bands! Favorite album as well. Cheers, mate!

[@armandojuan64]

I saw them live in 2001, together with Dream Theater and Steve Morse and they sounded amazingly well .

[@HPKazan]

*Jason Rullo has left the chat*

[@Pho3nixbeyond]

One of my most influential tracks in my life, never expected to see someone react to it. Thanks so much!

[@jaysmith5035]

Saw Symphony X and clicked, surprised me as well. Russell Allen can belt it out with such a cool tone, has the power to hit the notes without thinning them out. He's like a bridge from old school bluesy rockers to modern metal. OH and to continue on that journey of insanely powerful singers catch Unleash the Archers- Awakening Full Band Playthrough =)

[@andreasjohansson1952]

Too much doublekicks on that one, Dougs ears will fall off for sure. xD

[@maciejnowak666]

You are right about the dated orchestral technology. Its old, there was no budget back in the day. Its like they had more ambition than resources to realize their goals.

[@raulgonzalezart6006]

Thanks my friend for reacting, I love how you analize it.

[@Despond]

Everything the melody, vocals and lyrics, it is a true masterpiece. That galloping, triumphant ending is probably one of the greatest passages I love singing to.

[@matthewwilson5194]

One time I threw The Odyssey on a packed bar's jukebox in Houston, TX. I ducked and covered afterwards.

[@evracer]

I did "A Change of Seasons" and "The Odyssey" back to back in a country bar..... lol

[@FranciscoGarcia-co5uq]

Did the same with the album obzen fro meshuggah

[@jamieburnette2438]

Ayreon - The Day That the World Breaks Down ..

[@reactions4u438]

one of the best songs ive ever heard, prog metal classic!

[@stevejpm1]

You just made one of my favourite songs even better,oh and the double kickers are cool.

[@KhordLizardMage]

That's Sir Russell Allen to you, one of the greatest metal vocalist out there! As a fellow Jersey guy, "What Exit are you?", lol.

[@xboxist]

So unexpected! Saw Symphony X open for Blind Guardian in Chicago many years ago and really enjoyed their show. Very solid lead vocals. This song and Accolade II has been on my playlists ever since.

[@mtaffer]

What's crazy is that they sometimes do this song as the encore in their live performances. I've seen it done twice live. It's funny, we got one more song for you and then you hear that triumphant start and the crowd goes nuts...it's something to behold and experience. Russell Allen is no joke live, this whole band is on fire live!

[@onlytherighteousprevail6956]

Thank you for checking out my favorite music piece ever!! I hope you enjoyed it out as much as I did when I used to burn it out. Your way of reviewing the music is soo well-set and enjoyable, but above all; thank you for being educative for us musicians. It's really refreshing to see you around. Than you again. Hope you have a nice week, see you in the next one. Cheers.

[@Utubesuxmycock]

This song is a masterpiece. I always cry a little at the end. Beautiful

[@fernanties]

“If it’s the end then why do you keep changing keys?!” Hahaha

[@Karlotxo]

It really feels that you were in a 20-years journey dreaming and struggling for returning to home, to what you really are in Spirit. And this song really ends in peace. What a great music masterpiece!

[@wolfganghumboldt4830]

Michael Romeo (guitarist and songwriter of the band) would be very glad to hear you say it reminds you of movie soundtracks. He often says he is very inspired by movie scoring and is interested in doing it himself.

[@atomicvinylreviews3420]

sweet reaction man ! this is also my first time hearing Symphony X I gotta say, nah man, I really enjoy the guitar being so prominent in the mix

[@joostwinter]

Another important influence for Symphony X, as far as I understand, is Kansas. Especially on longer epics, such as Incomudro (Hymn to the Atman), you can hear a lot of where Symphony X comes from. As for Symphony X songs that would be nice to see reviewed, I really like Communion and the Oracle, The Accolade, and The Accolade II. None of them are this long, but they are still very intricate.

[@Hy-jg8ow]

Kansas + Rainbow + Deep Purple +Yngwie Malmsteen +Stratovarius + Megadeth + Rush + Yes = Symphony X.

[@jonatanhedlin3992]

Love this track, prog metal perfection. Never really listened to any other Symphony X tracks but keep returning to this one. And as per usual: Doug deliverth

[@MrJaska77]

Thank you so much for doing these! From being classically trained, but not following a musical career, and succumbing to the heavier types of music, your explanations and analysis keep entertaining me in ways no other reaction-type video series have done thus far.

[@mikesacklyn2372]

These guys always reminded me of Kansas. Another 70s masterful prog band. This is my favorite album of theirs hands down.

[@maximilianberkowitz4086]

Kansas were a huge influence, Michael Romeo himself said so. 🤘🤘

[@MichaelQuigley-fy5rc]

Michael Romeo, the guitarist is the mastermind behind everything you've heard. He is also an accomplished classically trained pianist. If you've ever heard his keyboard playing you realize it's completely different from the bands keyboardist. The movie score thing comes from Romeo being a big John Williams fan, Star Wars. Sorry about the guitar and the drums but they're a metal band. I recommend Symphony X "V" A new mythology. It was the first I heard of them and to this day remains my favorite. I believe you may like it more because it's more orchestral and less metal.

[@Hy-jg8ow]

Its metal enough, I'd say the perfect amount of metal and prog in that album. I hate it when people measure metal by how "brutal" it sounds, this is the reason for all the revisionist music history where bands constantly get "kicked out" of metal because they don't sound as mean as the latest subgenre.

[@AlfaRomeoQ]

@@Hy-jg8ow This is exactly why Symphony X (and most other 90s Prog Metal bands besides DT) don't get enough attention. They're not "brutal" enough, they're not "epic dragon slaying swordsman" enough, they're not radio friendly, and they just also happen to not be Dream Theater. It's truly a shame, because this gives Dream Theater this "godlike" image, which I wouldn't say is undeserved, but it comes at the cost of nearly every other 90s prog metal band remaining unknown.

[@Hy-jg8ow]

@@AlfaRomeoQ I agree completely. Bands such as Sieges Even, Seventh Wonder, Enchant, Cloudscape, Evergrey, Darkwater, Eumeria, Circus Maximus, etc basically get no attention outside a close-knit fanbase.

[@88winsn08]

V was my first Symphony X album as well, and still my favorite to this day!

[@Dhai-bakk]

Is there anywhere to listen to romeo's piano/keyboard playing?

[@OmarBhoo]

I saw them perform it live several time in NY and Boston back in the day. Always amazing.

[@DarkReaper898]

Thank you for being one of the only react channels to react to this masterpiece.

[@StefanoStenojediArosio]

Michael Romeo, guitarist and composer of this piece, listen principally movie scores

[@moronpoliceHQ]

I have been waiting for them to record a new version of this song with an orchestra since the first time I heard it, about 15 years ago. Their modern sound is so much more powerful, and with the emergence of great sounding sample libraries, it could be done. At the same time, I really enjoy the old school orchestra samples. It reminds me of the old VHS movies about biblical stories, as well as old low budget movies about the greek mythologies.

[@VynxeVainglory]

Man, when the Sirens riff comes in after that ridiculous guitar solo, I lost my mind. That's one of the greatest moments in metal.

[@brunogiovannini2180]

This was what I was looking for!! This masterpiece! Thanks Doug! You're a Master

[@TheTobyT]

Odyssey IS the epithome of epic songs! The songs "Fallen" and "Comunion And The Oracle" from Symphony X - V:The New Mythology Suite should be on your list.

[@solarflare2199]

the only word i find proper for Symphonx X is MINDBLOWING.

[@Jay_Wolfe]

I have been craving a reaction/review of this song from someone for way too long. Thank you, thank you so much for this.

[@ramblinwreck24]

This band, every musician is a true virtuoso. One of the most underrated bands out there! I've loved symphony x since I was 15, and saw them perform this song twice, both times were just AMAZING!!!!

[@ibd1977]

Ayreon - "The Day That The World Breaks Down" official video version with Arjen's production notes. Check it out :D

[@Wolf1910RTS]

Blind Guardian - And then there was silence has to be a next step, right? It's another epic, based on Homer's Iliad. I think you'll enjoy orchestral element and harmonies in this one.

[@loud7070]

Unbelievable composition and yes Doug all genuinely played. If they had the money for a full orchestra they would have done that. A true eargasm!

[@DugganBayerqueZuzulich]

This music inspired me from a young age to dedicate myself to making music for movies...awesome, beautiful, incredible, music from here to 1000 years more