I just wanted to make a general observation.
The Chasm and Symphony X represent two extremes(not necessarily opposite, but close) of what can be interpreted as modern metal's classical nature.
The Chasm are the conservative approach to neoclassical--a strict interpretation of the term's definition. A retread of classical ideas and technique in a new format with dissonant notes and creative application of of form, tone, and style. Melody is clear and readily available to the ears, yet not in a tradiitonal diatonic sense as in classical. The style is distinctly modernist, with minor sclaes and unusual harmonies like sixths and and sevenths playing as the twin-guitar functions.
Symphony X are the opposite end, employing classical instrumentation but not classical composition, to achieve a new interpretation of how classical music can be perceived and enjoyed. The epic nature of the pieces and instrumental diversity brought about by keyboard and guitar textures, as well as time signature mayhem, all accentuate the reinvention of the classical music wheel, bringing the narrative style to a foreront and applying a liberal interpretation of neoclassicalism to metal and symphonic serious music in general.
Bands should attempt both schools of thought, and perhaps with some more traditionalism and less me-smash-em death death bang bang approach, or less cheesiness and more detail to development and recapitulation, classical music can truly be reborn within the metal template.
The Chasm and Symphony X represent two extremes(not necessarily opposite, but close) of what can be interpreted as modern metal's classical nature.
The Chasm are the conservative approach to neoclassical--a strict interpretation of the term's definition. A retread of classical ideas and technique in a new format with dissonant notes and creative application of of form, tone, and style. Melody is clear and readily available to the ears, yet not in a tradiitonal diatonic sense as in classical. The style is distinctly modernist, with minor sclaes and unusual harmonies like sixths and and sevenths playing as the twin-guitar functions.
Symphony X are the opposite end, employing classical instrumentation but not classical composition, to achieve a new interpretation of how classical music can be perceived and enjoyed. The epic nature of the pieces and instrumental diversity brought about by keyboard and guitar textures, as well as time signature mayhem, all accentuate the reinvention of the classical music wheel, bringing the narrative style to a foreront and applying a liberal interpretation of neoclassicalism to metal and symphonic serious music in general.
Bands should attempt both schools of thought, and perhaps with some more traditionalism and less me-smash-em death death bang bang approach, or less cheesiness and more detail to development and recapitulation, classical music can truly be reborn within the metal template.