Symphony X - Paradise Lost

"Paradise Lost" is a 2007 concept album that directly adapts John Milton's 17th-century epic poem of the same name. The New Jersey-based quintet uses the album to explore the biblical themes of the fall of man and the war in heaven.

The band combines heavy, aggressive guitar riffs with prominent neoclassical orchestral arrangements. This 2007 release is considered a defining work in their discography for perfecting their signature blend of progressive metal and symphonic elements.

The album features the highly emotive and classically trained vocals of Russell Allen. His powerful delivery is a central element of the record, perfectly complementing Michael Romeo's neoclassical guitar work.

While it did not win mainstream music awards, "Paradise Lost" was critically acclaimed within the metal community and is widely considered their breakthrough commercial success. It helped solidify their status as leaders of the American progressive metal scene.