Search - :: Sanctus Ignis

A decent beginning, showing high musical talent

Justin Smith | Boston, MA USA | 06/26/2005

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Stephen Forte's Adagio project begins with this album. The liner notes for this album state that Forte relentlessly studied and practiced the style of Ynjwie Malmsteen, and the similarity is evident. The band bears some resemblence to the more well-known Symphony X, but there are some differences. Adagio incorporates far more classical/baroque passages in their songs. Often these will even be played with a piano or harpsichord (or a keyboard that is emulating the sound).



There is something missing from this band, and I have a bit of difficulty placing it. Perhaps it needs a stronger emotional connection. Or perhaps it is that the emotional feel throughout the album is fairly constant, and there isn't enough variety.



There are some great songs here and some great parts of songs. The Stringless Violin is probably the best song on the album, featuring some beautiful piano work, remarkable chorus melody, and Forte also plays with some soul (I hate when guitar players only shred).



The talent here is undeniable. Just in his mid-twenties, Forte demonstrates a level of technical skill on the guitar, combined with some knowledge of when to show restraint (which I am sure he will learn more about as he grows older), that places him in the same calibre of much more famous guitarists like Yngwie. The other musicians also show their stuff fairly well. The drumming stands out, as do the powerful, rich vocals.



I would give this album a rating of 7.2/10. I translate this to a 3-star rating here (Worth having in your collection, but it won't be something you listen to all that often)."

New Breed of Great Tradition

Golovanov Alexey | Limassol, Cyprus | 02/20/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"An exceptional album, which places "Adagio" as equals among guitar demi-Gods. I would say, that this band blends symphonic metal with progressive rock. The technique is equal and even higher than that of guitar virtuoso, reminds the best moments of Blackmore and Malmsteen. But composing of "Adagio" is outstanding, based on more sofisticated and refined tradition (France doesn't need to borrow anything - Saint-Preux "To Be Or Not")and getting inspired directly by baroque music. A real masterpiece of great talent and educated taste. Deserves 6 stars. As a living fossil (born more than 50 years ago), I am really impressed and pleased. Bonne chance and meilleurs voeux!"