Sons Of Apollo - MMXX
Released 17/1/20
Album review by; DeeDee
The second long player and I mean long if you are going to purchase the deluxe version, from the ultimate supergroup Sons Of Apollo, is to be released on January 17th. Titled ‘MMXX’ the music for the 8 tracks were, according to drummer Mike Portnoy, written in a matter of three weeks and the lyrics, penned by vocalist Jeff Scott Soto had added input on melodies from keyboard player Derek Sherinian. In a recent interview, Sherinian stated that after completing 83 shows on the last tour, it has helped the 5 supremos forge a stronger bond, that is reflected in the latest material. With each member being a renowned musician and each having so much individual talent, does it work? That’s the burning question and the answer is yes, it certainly does. I stood in awe last year watching SOA in Bristol, the atmosphere was incredible and the first album ‘Psychotic Symphony’ was a masterpiece.
The opening track, ‘Goodbye Divinity’ is also the first single, with its building instrumental start, it is 2 minutes before the first vocals. If you have yet to experience SOA, you get an excellent introduction to the bands standing from this song. ‘Wither To Black’ descends into more of a power trip, low and grinding, it has rapid firing riffs, yet retains a smooth tempo. Outstanding guitar from Ron ‘Bumblefoot’ Thal and synth keyboards care of Sherinian are paramount on ‘Asphyxiation’ while Soto delivers a more aggressive voice.
It’s all quieter for ‘Desolation July’ mellow keys and a soulful Soto, before a steady rise for this ballad. There are more guitar moments from Thal and it all glues together with Portnoy and Billy Sheehans’ adorning bass. A very emotional song and will probably come into its own on the world tour that is planned from now until the end of April. Sadly only one date in the UK, being March 19th in London. The fifth number ‘King Of Delusion’ begins in a sinister mood, with eerie keyboards that send shivers, of course the song develops and there is a strong presence from every member. The way the pieces interact makes this track in particular one of the best on MMXX. The production on this album is amazing, knowing that the parts were mostly recorded separately, in each of the guys private studios, it is perfect.
‘Fall To Ascend’ is another track that first finds us in a downward trend. Heavy and pounding hooks, menacing vocals and then crescendo after crescendo with fast paced guitar screaming and full backing from the rhythm, indeed the drums are colossal. Next up is ‘Resurrection Day’ I love the hints of East, there is a slower and more intricate display of musicianship on here, note perfect solos and the bass is a highlight. The final number ’New World Today’ is around 16 minutes long, yes a song of many parts. The introduction is a Sherinian mind-blowing experience, who is given time to captivate us on his synthesiser. Steady lyrics follow and a smooth, uncomplicated transition into quite a powerful demonstration of how well SOA have managed to bond more on this album.
It’s a matter of getting the balance right, each of them coming across and demonstrating their skills, but being able to blend into what Sons Of Apollo is all about and that is producing some of the most precise and flawless music, you will ever hear. I listened to ‘MMXX’ and with my eyes closed I managed to picture the band playing, with all the lights and effects as they did in Bristol, such is the power of this Supergroup.
Both Portnoy and Sherinian (The Del Fuvio Brothers) produced MMXX, it will be released as a CD in standard form, a limited edition will comprise of 2 CDs that include instrumental mixes and A cappella excerpts, that’s 24 tracks and 2 hours and 17 minutes long. There is also a 2 LP and CD package and digital versions available.
I have even seen a limited Blue vinyl package! M M X X (2LP Reflex Blue Vinyl Preorder)
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5/5
Pre order your chosen package HERE from - SOA on Inside Out Music/Sony.
MMXX -
1. Goodbye Divinity
2. Wither To Black
3. Asphyxiation
4. Desolate July
5. King Of Delusion
6. Fall To Ascend
7. Resurrection Day
8. New World Today
Sons of Apollo are;
Jeff Scott Soto Vocals
Mike Portnoy Drums, Vocals
Derek Sherinian Keyboards
Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal Guitars, Vocals
Billy Sheehan Bass
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