The Syn - Syndestructible - 2005
“The Syn is calling themselves Prog Modernists”
intro
As one of the most well-respected bands of the swinging '60s, The Syn opened for the likes of The Who, Pink Floyd, Cream and Jimi Hendrix at the famous Marquee Club in London. More than 40 years ago Yes bassist Chris Squire and vocalist Stephen Nardelli formed The Syn. This two have re-teamed to revive the legendary band and have released their first album of brand-new material called “Syndestructible”.
line-up
Steve Nardelli - vocals; Chris Squire - bass guitar; Gerard Johnson - keyboards; Paul Stacey - guitars; Jeremy Stacey - Drums
review
The album opens with a short a capella sung intro “Breaking down walls” (0:51) but I think there is also some sampling and/or recording technology involved. But it nicely sets the atmosphere. The first real track is called “Some time, Some way” (7:56). A kind of ballad with some pop and prog influences. Nardelli's vocals and the bass guitar of Squire are the basis of this composition. But that counts for the whole album. The band must have put some time in developing the vocal harmonies of this album. The piece has also a proggy outro called “Reach outro” (3:38). The keyboard parts are low profile and sometimes ambient alike. Next track is called “Cathedral of love” (8:58). This single is also the centerpiece of the record. One of the highlights of the album. Beautiful vocal harmonies and melodies. Maybe this piece will be the favorite of the Yes lovers. (together with the the track that closes this album “The promise”) But I will warn you The Syn is not making Yes music. “City of dreams” (9:38) has that delicious bass lines of Chris Squire. The best thing of this album is that The Syn managed to translate the spirit of the 60's and 70's into the new century. The album includes some great melodies. “Golden Age” (8:07) is more in a common rock vein. Somehow it reminds me of the old days when I listened to The Faces. Remember that album with that great title: “A nod is as good as a wink ... to a blind horse ... ”. Well this album brings back some memories. The album closes with the long track “The promise” (13:28). The atmospheric opening has beautiful and delicate vocals. In the later part the track the prog lovers get what they want; a great instrumental part before the Yes like vocals are returning. For me the highlight of this good album.
conclusion
The best thing of this album is that The Syn managed to translate the spirit of the 60's and 70's into the new century. The album includes some great melodies. “Syndestructible” has two faces. The first is more pop/rock orientated. The second has more progressive influences. The Syn made a good record. But if this is the album that Yes fans have been waiting for over 20 years? Well ... listen for yourself ... you decide . I enjoyed listening to this album.