While rock and heavy metal might not be some people's idea of Valentine's music, the American progressive metal band Symphony X from New Jersey is going to redefine "romantic" next Sunday in Shanghai.

The five-piece progressive metal band Symphony X from New Jersey, the United States. [Photo: shanghaidaily.com]

The concert will feature tracks from the five-piece band's new album "Paradise Lost" and some of their classics. The seven-minute "Paradise Lost" will be performed at the end of the concert.

Symphony X and Dream Theater are the two leading bands in progressive metal, according to Zhang Yan from GQC, organizer of Symphony X's show at the Wanping Theater.

"But Symphony X stands out by adding symphonic elements into heavy metal and is recognized for its unique style," she says.

"Symphony X is popular on the international market and was met by royal family in Thailand," says Zhang. "But it has less fame in China. We hope to bring Chinese audiences more rock music this spring. First is Symphony X and next will be Oasis."

Symphony X was founded in 1994 by guitar wizard Michael Romeo, whose music contains strong neoclassical elements. His technique is rapid and precise. Romeo, Yngwie Malmsteen and Joe Stump are considered the world's top three neoclassical guitarists.

The band released its stunning debut album in Japan in 1994, followed by a second hit album, "The Damnation Game". The second album featured vocalist Russell Allen and his hymnal choir sound. Symphony X was established on the international market.

In 1997, Symphony X released "The Divine Wings of Tragedy", considered the best album in progressive metal of the 1990s. Then came "Twilight in Olympus" in 1998. Symphony X then staged its first world tour in Europe and proved a major success.

"The New Mythology Suite" was the first concept album of Symphony X, followed by "The Odyssey" (2002) and "Paradise Lost" (2007).

The 24-minute-long interpretation of the Greek tale "The Odyssey" was a global sensation.

In 2007, the band released another masterpiece, "Paradise Lost", inspired by Milton's poem of the same name. Complex timing, odd meter and brilliant melodies distinguish the work, as well as Allen's vocal.

Symphony X's Asian tour is named "Paradise Lost".

In Beijing
Date: February 13, 8 p.m.
Venue: Star Live, 3/F, Tango, 79 Hepingli Xijie (near the Lama Temple subway station), Dongcheng District
Tickets: 280-680 yuan
Tel: 010-6417 7845

In Shanghai
Date: February 15, 7 p.m.
Venue: Shanghai Wanping Theater, 859 Zhongshan Rd S2
Tickets: 180-680 yuan
Tel: 400-707-9999, 021-6481 2938

(Shanghai Daily February 6, 2009)