Symmetric in Design cover

Symmetric in Design

Scar Symmetry · 2005

48 min · 12 tracks · melodic death metal

A tapestry of intricate riffs and soaring melodies intertwines with guttural vocals, creating a dynamic soundscape of melodic death metal.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    2012: The Demise of the 5th Sun — This track features a compelling mix of aggressive riffs and atmospheric clean vocals, encapsulating the album's duality between brutality and melody.
  • →
    Veil of Illusions — With its complex arrangements and haunting melodies, this track exemplifies the band's signature style while pushing the boundaries of melodic death metal.
  • →
    Orchestrate the Infinite — This song stands out for its dynamic shifts and lyrical themes that explore existentialism, showcasing the band's progressive influences.
  • →
    Detach From the Outcome — The blend of harsh verses with an uplifting chorus highlights the emotional range of the album, making it a memorable listening experience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions and skilled performances, contributing to its appeal in the melodic death metal genre.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of dual vocal styles, alternating between guttural growls and clean singing throughout its tracks.
  • Each song typically follows a structure that includes intricate guitar riffs, melodic choruses, and tempo changes that enhance the dynamic feel.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

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

  • steady, consistent energy flow
  • gradual builds and payoffs
  • immersive listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on February 7, 2005, Symmetric in Design is Scar Symmetry's second album, following their debut, Schizogeny. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their place within the melodic death metal scene, showcasing a refined sound that expanded upon their earlier work and introduced elements like clean vocals and progressive structures.
Stylistic neighbors
Soilwork· Dark Tranquillity· In Flames

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Orchestrate the Infinite

    The bridge shifts to a reflective tone, contemplating existence and free will while layering intricate harmonies.

    This moment marks a departure from the relentless aggression of previous sections, allowing a deeper introspection that enriches the overall narrative.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Chaosweaver 3:40
  • 2 2012: The Demise of the 5th Sun 3:51
  • 3 Dominion 3:26
  • 4 Underneath the Surface 3:50
  • 5 Reborn 3:58
  • 6 Veil of Illusions 5:06
  • 7 Obscure Alliance 3:42
  • 8 Hybrid Cult 5:00
  • 9 Orchestrate the Infinite 4:07
  • 10 Detach From the Outcome 3:25
  • 11 Seeds of Rebellion 3:12
  • 12 The Eleventh Sphere 5:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata