Symphorce's third album, 2002's rollicking phorcefulAhead, offered power-metal fans a refreshing respite from stereotypical dragons-and-battles lyrics, galloping rhythm sections and shrieking vocals. It drew heavily from the Queensr˙che book of songwriting by addressing introspective topics without sacrificing muscle or integrity. Twice Second, the latest album from the German band featuring members of Symphorce's power-metal brethren Brainstorm (singer Andy B. Franck) and Freedom Call (guitarist Cedric "Cede" Dupont), isn't quite up to par with phorcefulAhead, but it does attempt to pull in fans from other metal circles. For example, Symphorce gets extra-aggressive with the nü-metal-tinged "Cause of Laughter," during which Franck's powerful and resonating vocals sound even more lethal than usual. Meanwhile, "Two Seconds To Live" embraces old-school metal tradition and "Whatever Hate Provides" slams out some hardcore riffs.
Yet, other tracks -- "Searching," the rousing opener "Fallen," "Tears" and the mid-tempo closer "Cry On My Shoulder" -- accomplish what Symphorce does best: strategically meld progressive and power metal. Nothing on Twice Second is quite as catchy as "Your Blood, My Soul" from Symphorce's last album, but maybe it doesn't have to be. After all, with the band now on solid ground with its own distinct, soul-stirring, ear-ripping sound (which began on 1999's Truth to Promises and was furthered on 2000's Sinctuary), Symphorce can afford to diversify its offerings without diluting itself. Initially disappointing, Twice Second sounds better the second (and third, fourth and fifth) time around.
Track Listing
1) Fallen (5:54)
2) Tears (4:40)
3) Whatever Hate Provides (4:33)
4) Cause of Laughter (5:03)
5) In the Cold (3:44)
6) Take What's Mine (5:35)
7) Face of Pain (4:23)
8) Searching (4:27)
9) Two Seconds Live (3:57)
10) Cry On My Shoulder (6:17)
Bonus Track: Under the Curse (5:09)
Running Time (53:48)
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