"I've been to Jerusalem. I think everyone should go there, at least once in their lives, to see the true meaning of peace.
And that's all I'm gonna say about that."

A somewhat naïve statement from Russel Allen, made during SYMPHONY X's performance in Tel Aviv. Whatever you may think of this statement, simplistic or not, there's no denying that SYMPHONY X is anything but simple. Heralding in many ways the genre of Symphonic Metal, and certainly being one of the more prominent Power and Progressive Metal bands out there, SYMPHONY X is something of a household name. With albums like "The Divine Wings of Tragedy" (1997) and "The Odyssey" (2002), among others, SYMPHONY X have carved their way into the hearts of Metal fans.

All of this, with good cause – whether you like their genre or not, there's no denying SYMPHONY X's musicianship. Most notably, Russel Allen's vocals are powerful, accurate and enthralling, and Michael Romeo is, in my opinion, one of the finest guitarists alive.
 

Fortunately, SYMPHONY X have both the skill, stamina and raw energy to capture us, ears and all, whatever the situation. Even with technical difficulties and their set-list being not wholly satisfactory, I enjoyed their performance.
 

The show ended with a high note – the band played some of their older, better material, much to the audience's joy, who raised their fists, roared and joined in singing. Over two hours in, Allen's voice did not crack, nor has his energy dwindled. And that, I believe, marks him and SYMPHONY X as great performance artists.

So, if these lads come to play near you, don't miss them.