The Pitch: New Jersey symphonic progressive metal band don't need any lyrics to express themselves on their latest unsigned album inspired by The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.
What I Like: I hope the irony in naming an instrumental album The Way Of The Voice is not lost on the band. In all seriousness though, this is a stellar album from a talented group of musicians. It's harder to get signed without a vocalist, but I think that Ophidius deserve it. The compositions are gorgeous, led by fantastic progressive hooks that never seem to run out of steam. The symphonic editions are merely icing on the cake, but damn are they epic.
What I Don't Like: I've certainly heard this style before. I am particularly thinking about Mendel's solo work. Lots of strong parallels between his albums and this one. That having been said, if you do it well and you have a passion that happens to come out sounding this way, who am I to say you should do it differently? Maybe you guys should look into a collab. Duel challenge!
The Verdict: If orchestral strings and choir complimented by relentless prog riffs make you throw up the horns, nab a copy of The Way Of The Voice before it's too late. While it's nothing especially new, Ophidius show that they may be among the best at this particular niche. Highly expressive music that doesn't need words. The album is streaming below and better yet is available as a name your own price download. Nothing to lose, everything to gain.
Flight's Fav's: Tough to choose. They are all pretty equally good. Maybe "The Calling" and "Seven Thousand Steps."