ADAGIO: Underworld (MELODIC METAL): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

"Underworld" is Adagio's second album. Almost exclusively the work of French guitarist Stephan Forté, this band plays neo-classical heavy metal with a strong progressive flavour close to the American band Symphony X. David Redmann of Pink Cream 69 also brings a certain amount of experience to the vocals. Production is made by Dennis Ward, assisted by Stéphan Forté himself.

"Underworld" is made up of eight tracks, almost all clocking in at over 6 minutes. For its second album, Adagio called on the Lyon vocal ensemble for backing vocals. This is a first for the group, who have never before collaborated in this way. And it has to be said that the result lives up to expectations.

Classicism and metal music blend together throughout 'Underworld'. Adagio takes us into a world of virtuosos, with guitars and keyboards taking pride of place. Keyboardist and pianist Kévin Codferi is particularly prominent on the track 'Chosen', pouring out a deluge of notes. The choirs from Lyon (Introïtus/Solvet Saeclum in Favilla) and the warm, Symphony X-like vocals combine perfectly, sometimes giving the impression of listening to a film soundtrack ('From my sleep'). While the ballads have not been forgotten, it is the long eponymous track, over 13 minutes long, that stands out as the album's flagship track. Absolutely breathtaking, it features backing vocals, magnificent orchestrations written by Forté himself and splendid solos.

In a rather difficult genre, neo classic metal, Adagio has produced a splendid second album. While some may be put off by the deluge of notes, the result is never sterile and serves the music perfectly. Stéphan Forté's talent is to be commended, as is Redmann's fine vocal performance. The result is a fine musical journey from one of the brightest hopes on the contemporary heavy metal scene. - Official website

ADAGIO

UNDERWORLD

NTS

MELODIC METAL