Loads of synths? Check. Symphonic elements? Yep, but much less than one might think (well, there's a borrowed piece classical music in one song, but mentioned in the credits... Power metal? Just check out that muscle man on the cover. And you know what? Then there's some pop music popping up!!! "Synthpop" would be more fitting than "Synthphonia" a term... But that's the meaning I guess.

Synthphonia Suprema might sound a bit peculiar on paper, but how it is actually? Keybass is used to make it sound more artificial, but the guitar riffs are nothing but familiar for those who listen to power metal. Labyrinth's Pier Gonnella guests on the rhythm guitars. There's loads of synths, not in vein of symphonic stuff, but more like pop. However, I waited for some original solutions, but the synths aren't very varying or special, to tell the truth. Actually, they often are very annoying. Just don't wait any Jarre, Vangelis or such. And yes, there's synth solos. The music doesn't sound futuristic, it's simply remaking classic Italian power metal, and only a few great riffs do not help a lot.

Matkracker's vocals are of "Idols" style. The worst crime; the use of the vocoder! I mean, I just HATE that stuff. And that's not strong enough a word for it. At times, when he goes towards power metal territory, he sounds a bit like Eldritch's Terence Holler, only not as strong. And while talking about Italian Eldritch, they use synthesizer much more unique way. There is a lyrical concept about "great synth leader" or something... The special edition includes a bonus cover of Warlord's / Lordian Guard's 'Battle of the Living Dead'.

Synthphonia Suprema's meld of "techno" and power metal simply does not work. The music is predictable and nowhere near as adventuruos as it should've been. Only the fans of die-hard Italian power metal might find something worthwhile here. Back to the drawing board I say!

Rating: 2- (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
03/23/2006 12:17