Cassandra Syndrome | Satire X
by Joe Mis
Staff Writer
Cassandra Syndrome is a true rarity – an American operatic metal band! In a genre usually dominated by Scandinavians, the Maryland based Cassandra Syndrome is out to prove that dark operatic metal is ready to leave it northern European nest and become a worldwide style with the upcoming release of their second full length album entitled Satire X.
Formed back in 2005, Cassandra Syndrome is trying to blaze a unique trail in the operatic metal arena by avoiding heavy keyboards and synthesizers in favor of the traditional metal lineup of vocals, dual guitars, bass and drums. The quintet released their debut album, Of Patriots and Tyrants, in 2009 to solid reviews, and carries the momentum through to 2011’s Satire X. The album features 10 intense tracks with dark, socially conscious lyrics and superb but heavy melodies. Rather than imitating the European style of operatic metal, Cassandra Syndrome’s music is more like traditional heavy metal with an operatic singer.
The band is fronted by soprano Irene Jericho. She has a soaring and powerful voice, delivering the goods on all levels across her range. She can sing softly and quietly, and them crank it up to a superb operatic high. Chris Kackley and Jen Tonon handle the guitars throughout. Both are fine players who can handle anything from simple riffs to classically-tinged spiraling solos. Bassist Joe Cariola works hand in hand with Tonon’s rhythm guitars and Jay Jericho’s perfectly timed drums making for an incredibly powerful and highly capable rhythm section. Layer Irene Jericho’s fine voice and Kackley’s superb solos over the rhythms gives the band an very polished and veteran sound.
The album kicks the listener in the head right from the opening notes and blistering guitar assault of “No More Peace Forever” and the flowing intense bass of “Hell On Earth.” Nicely done vocals and interesting tempo changes make “The Fool” and “The Magus” intriguing companion tracks, and the intricate rhythms on the latter make it one of the stronger tracks on the CD. Lullaby notes open the nightmarish and creepy “Shackles” before the band truly cranks it up to eleven.
Big bass and clockwork drums drive “Poison Rain,” a track that features easily the hottest guitar solos on the release. Irene Jericho’s voice is the keystone of “The Priestess,” while soft guitars and a great bass line anchor the very progressive metal sounding “What You Wanted.” “The Iron Cross” is all about the rhythm guitars and drums, but the band has saved the best track for last. “Pestilence” is an operatic metal expo piece. A simple bass/vocal opening phrase starts it off, adding some cymbals and light guitar as the song progresses and builds intensity. Layers of vocals are added along with power and volume until the guitar solo takes the song to incredible heights.
The mix and engineering are generally fine, but there are a handful of spots where the bass and drums seem a bit muddy. The vocals and guitars are always crisp and clean, recorded with traditional metal warmth rather than the sterility and iciness of the European power/operatic metal mixes. The overall sound is very balanced between voice and instrument, and all performances are top notch. Song structure is very good throughout, and the lyrics thought provoking.
Satire X is a fine sophomore attempt. The members of Cassandra Syndrome are talented performers and should have a bright future ahead. There really are no weak spots on the album – perhaps the only true criticism would be the lack of a more “upbeat” song or two both in terms of lyrics to give the listener a break from the serious and dark topics of the music.
Satire X is sometimes theatrical occasionally over-the-top, but always highly recommended for all fans of operatic metal and those that enjoy strong female voices. Even those who don’t “get” operatic vocals will be able to appreciate the metal talents that stand with Irene.
Genre: Operatic Metal
Band:
Irene Jericho (vocals)
Chris Kackley (lead guitar)
Joe Cariola (bass)
Jen Tonon (rhythm guitar)
Jay Jericho (drums)
Track Listing:
1. No More Peace Forever
2. Hell on Earth
3. The Fool
4. The Magus
5. Shackles
6. Poison Rain
7. The Priestess
8. What You Wanted
9. The Iron Cross
10. Pestilence
Label: Figmental Records
Website: www.cassandrasyndrome.com
Hardrock Haven rating: 8.5/10