Truth be told, even the scribes on this site cannot cover every release that comes through our channels in the current marketplace. As such, certain bands may slip through the proverbial cracks until years later as we play catch up. Originating as The Paralydium Project from 2015-2019, this quintet from Sweden wisely shortened themselves to Paralydium when signing to Frontiers Music for their 2020 release Worlds Beyond. The lineup consists of three members who currently have ties – or used to be a part of – Dynazty, choosing to express themselves in a more progressive metal framework here. Universe Calls as the second record also showcases a new vocalist in Alexander Lycke – a vibrant recording for those who love expressive, melodic vocals coupled with sophisticated musicianship, all encapsulated in a sound that rivals many of the premiere progressive metal outfits that hit the scene during the 90s to early 2000’s.
Much of the emphasis on these compositions lies in sturdy guitar / keyboard play, steady bass/drum support, and soaring, multi-octave melodies with adequate adherence to key harmonies/hooks or instrumental interplay moments. The two-part epic “The Arcane Exploration” is spread out between the midway point and finale – containing almost 25 minutes worth of exploration between technically impressive movements, reflective / serene segments, as well numerous time signature transformations that showcase clear command of proficiency at all instruments. Seasoned / schooled guitarists should revel at the multifaceted abilities in the brain/hands of John Berg, grasping everything from neoclassical to progressive techniques that shift easily as the song before him needs – check out his main commercial leaning action during “Sands of Time” all the way through to his fluid runs within “Caught in a Dream” where many will think of Symphony X, Darkwater, and Circus Maximus angles. While previous vocalist Mikael Sehlin (now in Amaranthe) had a more masculine, huskier nature to his work, Alexander seems to be cleaner with a propensity to comfortably hit an upper note nature that can rise to the challenge. Even when mirroring the pace of the adventurous musical underpinning as in the verse of highlight “Forging the Past”, it’s a magnificent choice that will pay off long-term at this early stage of the band’s career.
Paralydium isn’t going to be one of those acts that dazzles or really breaks away from what you’ve come to expect in progressive metal for Universe Calls. They, however, write technically sound melodic songs that logically make sense – and that’s saying something in a world of YouTube or Twitch-land where everyone wants to play the most challenging or fastest material to impress. Those who seek a deeper dive into this subgenre should be satisfied with this release.