Back in 2017 Sons Of Apollo impressed the metal scene with the charismatic debut album “Psychotic Waltz” and now Mike Portnoy, Derek Sherinian, Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal , Billy Sheehan and Jeff Scott Soto return with a stronger chemistry and brilliant ideas to release the sophomore full length “MMXX”.
The album opener “Goodbye Divinity” manifest diverse nuances & styles starting with enigmatic synths that introduce a series of extra crunchy guitar riffs and consequent heavy rhythmic dynamics with an evident prog metal flair leading to complex variations and such dazzling instrumental ensemble is enriched by Soto’s charismatic rocker delivery.
With a darker mood “Asphyxiation” focuses on massive rounds of heavy rhythmic grooves while maintaining a catchy essence enhanced by the passionate vocals and the eclectic technical nature of the song comes alive with the flamboyant keyboards and the vibrant guitar soloing.
The atmospheric grandeur and the poignant piano melodies of “King Of Delusion” evoke gloomy emotions and will continue to hold an essential role throughout the song but soon the impeccable rhythmic section will take over delivering bold guitar riffs and precise drumming while the vocals naturally add an edgy rock vibe that will shift to a soothing emotive delivery during the slower introspective moments.
“Resurrection Day” demands your attention with the elaborate prog approach of the guitar work and the remarkable rhythmic variations that generate massive entertaining grooves rendered even more interesting by the mind-blowing bass solo and the stellar keyboards.
The inspiring epic opus “New World Today” marks a grand finale constantly reminding you of the band’s brilliant musicianship in fact every instrument is crucial in the creation of so many intricate patterns that generate a major sonic diversity ranging from fierce rhythmic blasts and insane odd time signatures to magnificent guitar leads and luminous melodic crescendos.
It would be impossible to overlook the extraordinary talent that fuels “MMXX” yet Sons Of Apollo are not just trying to showcase their evident abilities as they work together to create a memorable collection of songs that is destined to attract more fans worldwide.