Alchemy X

Critically acclaimed recording artists Alchemy X have gained notoriety both in the U.S. and abroad for their unique blend of progressive yet melodic heavy metal, as evidenced in their previous two releases, 1999's "A Delicate Balance" and 2002's "11:59:59". A "thinking person's" band, they run in the same heady lyrical and thematic circles as Rush or Marillion, yet with the more modern stylistics and meanderings of bands like Tool, System of a Down, and Tea Party. Their live performances over the years have cemented them as a formidable presence, effectively translating even their most challenging songs to an audience environment.This is a band who believes it's just as important to create mood, emotion and feeling as technical prowess, and those who have seen them live can attest to the intensity of an Alchemy X show.Musically, Alchemy X featured three seven-stringed players long before it became fashionable, as guitarists Chris Fox and Rob Schreiber and bassist Steve Ratchen have all utilized this modality since the mid 1990's, alternating effectively between ultra low-end power and furious riffing and counterpoint. Ratchen takes the unorthodox to the extreme, as his left-handed playing of a right-handed strung instrument serves to create some pretty new and unusual song-writing techniques. Drummer Chris Scorsese adds just the right balance of off-time passages and syncopation with the occasional all out thrashing and organized chaotic rhythmic playing that defines his unique yet recognizable style.UPDATE: March 2009- Original Alchemy X vocalist Marty Morin has rejoined the band and is recording vocals for the new AX record, due out later this year- more updates as info becomes available