Embarking Through Portaled Pathways

Album Review:  Universe Calls by Paralydium

CONTIBUTING AUTHOR Lyana

Paralydium’s “Universe Calls” is primarily a symphonic progressive metal album, sticking closely to traditional elements of the genre. Forswearing any semblance of experimental or avant-garde influences, the tracks instead focus on classic progressive metal sounds. Elements of orchestral synths are crucial, manifesting as an added band member and blending seamlessly with the rest of Paralydium’s instrumentation.

The album is packed with engaging material, and the musicianship is top-notch. Alongside the driving verses and sweeping choruses, atmospheric acoustic sections are effectively incorporated — present in tracks “The Arcane Exploration Part I” and “Interlude.” While the album seems quite scarce in showcasing key heavy moments, the opening riff of “Caught In a Dream” and the minor key segments of “Sands of Time” offers some headbang-worthy experiences. Overall, the band maintains a solid structure and varied style that sustains engagement in “Forging the Past” and “Caught In A Dream.”

However, Paralydium struggles with ensuring memorable hooks. The lack of catchy elements poses a major drawback, especially in progressive metal, where such hooks are essential. The chorus of “Sands of Time” comes closest to leaving a mark, reflected in its status as the lead single. Unfortunately, it remains the only part that consistently sticks after having the album on repeat. “The Arcane Exploration,” a sprawling 25-minute track split into two parts, takes up a significant portion of the album’s length but lacks sufficient variation or dynamic shifts to justify its size. The band opted for two extended segments, which resulted in overly lengthy solos and transitions that feel disconnected, risking the album’s 50-minute duration feeling excessive. 

The nostalgic appeal of Universe Calls is evident for fans of classic symphonic progressive metal, but the album has yet to harness a vibrant core that could let its sound shine. While Paralydium’s potential is clear, Universe Calls may limit their current capabilities. Emulating the genre-defining bands that came before is a formidable task, and Paralydium still has room to polish their sound and refine their lyrics to be considered a force to be reckoned with.

For fans of Kamelot, Dream Theater, Symphony X