Are these guys really from New Jersey?!

That was the first thing that popped into my mind when listening to SUSPYRE’s debut album, “The Silvery Image.” This album seemed to slip under our radars when choosing our best albums for 2005. I’m certain this CD would have been on my list. Not only does SUSPYRE offer a fantastic array of progressive metal, I’d say that SYMPHONY X now has a run for their money.  

I’m not only impressed by Clay Barton’s vocals, but by the rest of the band as well. Gregg Rossetti and Rich Skibinsky worked the MIDI aspects of the album quite well and their instrumental skills are exceptional – and yes, a saxophone is always welcome on a metal album!

The first track of “The Silvery Image” starts off with a short but sweet orchestral arrangement reminiscent of something you would hear from a RHAPSODY intro. The second track quickly starts off with “Father of Hate,” one of the several highlights of this album. Fast, melodic guitar riffs and steady, pulsing drum work rip through this song. Next on the list comes “Distant Skies” which seems like a great intro for one of their shows and I’m sure will be one of their classics. 

I can’t really pick a favorite off this album, but “Last of the Survivors” has both an addictive melody and chorus.  “The City Under Sands” is truly an epic song. Let me just say again, Clay Barton and the rest of this band have fantastic abilities and it truly shows throughout “The Silvery Image.”     

“The Silvery Image” is highly recommended to fans of SYMPHONY X and those who are new to the neo-classical style of metal. SUSPYRE – Rock On!