PARALYDIUM – Worlds Beyond

Out of this World

If you remember and loved the recordings from 2015 called “The Paralydium Project”, then you will love the full debut album by Paralydium called Worlds Beyond. The line up is almost identical with a change on the keyboards to Mikael Blanc, and with Mikael Sehlin now handling all of the vocal duties. Worlds Beyond is a full length concept album in the Progressive Metal vein of bands like Dream Theater, Sons of Apollo and Seventh Wonder and is beautifully produced and performed. After several listenings, I am reminded mostly of early Images and Words Dream Theater, when the melodies were the strongest and the keyboards were played by Kevin Moore. Worlds Beyond has the same kind of magic happening, and leaves you wanting more.

Debut Album

Sweden’s Paralydium was founded by guitarist John Berg, who has gathered an amazing group of musicians to create what can easily be called a progressive metal super group. After the success of the Paralydium Project back in 2105, Berg started writing material for the full length record, and decided to make it a concept album. The difficulties involved in tying a group of songs into one distinct story is not an easy task, but Berg and company have manage to more than successfully create a breathtaking suite of compositions with Worlds Beyond.

Favorite Tracks

At just over 45 minutes, Worlds Beyond contains 9 tracks starting with the instrumental “Eternal Paralydium”  followed by “Within the Sphere” and one of my favorites: “Synergy”.  From the crystal clear acoustic guitars to the precise syncopated drums, this track really hits home with melodies that are sweet and haunting at the same time. Every instrument is played to perfection, and the songs are all strong lyrically from start to finish. Another personal favorite is “Finding the Paragon” which has it all, from dueling synths and guitars to kick ass rhythms with strong vocals to tie it all together into a masterpiece of prog metal.

Final Notes

If you’ve been waiting for this release, then you will not be disappointed as it was worth the wait. From great production to well crafted songs Worlds Beyond has everything any self respecting progressive Metal fan could ask for. If you are new to this band, then you are in for a great surprise, either way this album is definitely worth adding to your catalog.

Lineup

Mikael Blanc – Keyboards
Jonathan Olsson – Bass
Georg Härnsten Egg – Drums
John Berg – Guitars
Mikael Sehlin – Vocals

PARALYDIUM – Worlds Beyond Track List

1. Eternal Paralydium
2. Within the Sphere
3. Synergy
4. Finding the Paragon
5. Crystal of Infinity
6. Awakening
7. The Source
8. Into Divinity
9. Seeker of the Light

Running Time: 45:37