Paradise Lost
Symphony X · 2007
64 min · 12 tracks · progressive metal
Epic melodies intertwine with complex rhythms, creating a grand tapestry of progressive metal infused with symphonic elements.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
Set the World on Fire (The Lie of Lies) — This track exemplifies the album's thematic depth and features soaring vocals balanced with intricate instrumental sections, highlighting Symphony X's signature sound.
-
→
The Serpent's Kiss — With its driving rhythm and dynamic shifts, this song captures the essence of the band's heavy yet melodic style, making it a standout moment on the album.
-
→
Paradise Lost — The title track merges haunting melodies with powerful lyrics, encapsulating the overarching narrative of loss and redemption that permeates the album.
-
→
Revelation (Divus Pennae ex Tragoedia) — This epic closer showcases an expansive structure and lyrical complexity, reflecting the band's mastery of blending storytelling with technical prowess.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album features ambitious compositions and strong performances, though it has some uneven pacing.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a symphonic intro that transitions into heavy guitar riffs, establishing a dramatic tone.
- The last three tracks slow down the tempo significantly, allowing for a more reflective conclusion to the album.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
7/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- back-loaded emotional crescendos
- epic narratives with complex rhythms
- immersive journey towards climax
- soaring vocals for dramatic moments
Maybe skip if you
- prefer instant gratification tracks
- seek short, standalone songs
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on June 26, 2007, Paradise Lost is Symphony X's sixth studio album, following the critically acclaimed V from 2000. At this point in their career, the band had established themselves as leaders in the progressive metal genre, and this album further solidified their reputation for intricate compositions and virtuosic musicianship.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Dream Theater· Fates Warning· Nightwish
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
-
Set the World on Fire (The Lie of Lies)
A climactic shift where the protagonist confronts their own illusions directly within a fervent chorus.
This moment underscores a pivotal transformation in perspective as it contrasts earlier verses that hint at vulnerability.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Oculus ex Inferni 2:35
- 2 Set the World on Fire (The Lie of Lies) 5:54
- 3 Domination 6:29
- 4 The Serpent's Kiss 5:03
- 5 Paradise Lost 6:32
- 6 Eve of Seduction 5:04
- 7 The Walls of Babylon 8:16
- 8 Seven 7:01
- 9 The Sacrifice 4:49
- 10 Revelation (Divus Pennae ex Tragoedia) 9:20
- 11 Sacrifice Prelude (demo) 1:36
- 12 Opening Alternate Intro (demo) 1:50
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.