Second Life Syndrome by Riverside

Second Life Syndrome, the second album by Polish band  Riverside, was released in 2005. This concept album continues the narrative of their debut album,  "Out of Myself". 

This progressive metal album has a grander sound than their debut, with a high emotional impact through a blend of purely atmospheric and heavier moments. Singer and bassist Mariusz Duda and guitarist Piotr Grudziński make a significant contribution.

Riverside's style is perfectly represented on this album, which emphasizes excellent compositional work and complexity, as well as great playing ability.

The album is very emotionally impactful, especially on songs like "Volte-Face" and "Conceiving You."

It's a masterpiece of progressive metal, in my opinion their pinnacle, an evolution from their previous work, a perfect album characterized by alternating aggressive and delicate moments.

Beautiful atmospheres, thanks above all to the guitar, which expresses a very engaging and emotional sound, because emotions dominate this album.

The tones are darker, the atmospheres suffused, the acoustic breaks, the riffs decisive, and Dude's voice has a warm and passionate timbre.

The title track is splendid, as are "Before" and "Conceiving You," all the way up to the more progressive "Volte-Face."

An album that must be listened to non-stop. Captivating. The consecration of Riverside. Essential.

Tracklist

1. After (3:31)
2. Volte-Face (8:40)
3. Conceiving You (3:39)
4. Second Life Syndrome (15:40)
- a. Part One - From Hand to Mouth
- b. Part Two - Secret Exhibition
- c. Part Three - Vicious Ritual (instrumental)
5. Artificial Smile (5:27)
6. I Turned You Down (4:34)
7. Reality Dream III (5:01)
8. Dance with the Shadow (11:38)
9. Before (5:23)

Duration 63:33

LineUp

- Mariusz Duda - vocals, bass, acoustic guitar
- Piotr Grudziński - electric guitars
- Michał Łapaj - keyboards, Hammond, theremin, backing vocals
- Piotr Kozieradzki - drums, percussion

Note: All links to the musicians' works are in the TAGS under the article title or on the "Artists" page