Flying Beyond The 9

FLYING BEYOND THE 9 is the sixth solo release from Seattle rocker James Byrd.
Personnel: James Byrd (guitar, background vocals).
Audio Mixer: James Byrd.
Recording information: Brian Hutchinson Studios, Seattle, WA; Strange Partical Productions, Seattle, WA.
Illustrator: James Byrd.
Arranger: James Byrd.
Described on the cover as "symphonic metal for the new age," this CD features some very strong prog-metal performances, much in the style of groups like Helloween, Royal Hunt, and Ayreon, but with a more classic rock texture a lot of the time. Sometimes this classic rock texture seems to even remind one of Styx and such bands. The musicianship is impeccable, although it gets a little noodley at times. The vocal work and arrangement are particularly strong. However, there is a certain sameness to the music present on this CD. ~ Gary Hill