Concept - Reason And Truth
Underground Symphony

Sander: Concept plays bombastic power metal, the kind that is released in such large numbers that one is extra critical in one’s judgement. Because in these times of economical downfall, the hardworking CD buyer has to think twice before he spends his Euro (or Dollar, or Pound or... well you get the idea) on another masterpiece.

In all honesty this record is not one. Clearly there are some well-balanced compositions like opener ‘Elegy Of Truth’, but the band also deserves some penalty points. For example, for the voice of Gianni Carcione, which starts to irritate after three songs. His thin, high voice is, although clear, too weak to carry the bombastic songs. So it is mainly enjoying the instrumental parts, which show the compository abilities of the band. Only the way these parts are incorporated on the album is questionable to say the least. ‘The Answer II’ is an instrumental from one minute, that could have turned in ‘Living A Lie’ beautifully. But instead it is cut off, in just seconds. Another example: the majestic instrumental part halfway through ‘Conceptsymphony’ is cut off likewise, after which the song is continued as if nothing happened. But overall the songs are well constructed.

Sadly the whole is mixed quite poor, so the compositions do not come to its own. The mix is too hollow and muffled, resulting in a blur of sounds. I am aware that it is hard to find space when one has to mix multiple guitars, a bass, a keyboard, drums and vocals. But is still possible to create a clear and open mix.

‘Reason And Truth’ compromises good compositions, that loose a lot of strength due to the bad mix and the weak vocals. The combination of Italy + power metal + orchestral pieces, easily lead into a comparison with Rhapsody. But is will take time before the band can measure up with them.

Score 72/100 (details)

http://www.conceptsymphony.com