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Odd Dimension: Symmetrical
Odd Dimension Symmetrical album new music review

Odd Dimension: Symmetrical

Progressive/Power Metal
4.5/5.0

Scarlet Records
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by Craig Hartranft,  03.21.2011

Progressive metal (American or international) can be described with several words: ubiquitous, pervasive and, maybe, predictable. While it has fallen, to some degree and by some critic's estimation, on hard times of late, it continues as a huge presence, especially in the European theater. For Odd Dimension, from Italy, however, I'm not sure I'm ready to assign that last characteristic of predictability to their debut Symmetrical.

Certainly, like most of their European cousins, Odd Dimension infuses a generous portion of power metal within their arrangements, easily heard within Farewell to Stars by example. Yet, it's more likely you'll hear the range of creativity of the peers like Threshold (the album was mixed by Threshold's guitarist Karl Groom, by the way), Fate's Warning, and most definitely Dream Theater.

Mostly, the pieces here are on the heavier side, then tempered with segues of reflection. Sometimes the edge is softened by the keyboard work that can vary between wispy synth notions and sparkling, and dare I say, inventive stronger than normal solos. (I'm not a huge fan of expressive keyboards in most prog metal bands.) Odd Dimension was born from the band experimenting with everything from death metal to the progressive, and in between, before falling into this current groove. This singular interest in experimentation probably account for the intrigue and therefore the creative force and entertaining value of songs like I'll Be Back Once More or The Day Meets Night. Conversely, however, a song like Rising Through Light, which starts with a near rock groove, merely develops into a nearly monotonous racing piece of heaviness.

There is little doubt of Odd Dimension's talent and creativity; Symmetrical is well thought and well played work of classic progressive metal. Their inventiveness and passion is self-evident, making this an entertaining album and Odd Dimension one to watch in the future. Very recommended.




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In Short

There is little doubt of Odd Dimension's talent and creativity; Symmetrical is well thought and well played work of classic progressive metal. Their inventiveness and passion is self-evident, making this an entertaining album and Odd Dimension one to watch in the future. Very recommended.

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