Magnitude 9 - Decoding the Soul (2004/Inside Out)
Rating - 8.4

Lies Behind the Truth-mp3

Magnitude 9 appear to have turned the corner with this release, as sound-wise it is more complete and etched than the previous 'Reality in Focus,' and the songwriting is strong, as well. The band's music is reminiscent of a more straight-forward Symphony X, and also some of the heaviness of Brainstorm or Symphorce in places. Guitarist Rob Johnson's chops have never been better, and are bolstered by a great distortion sound and gain.
The chugging "New Dimension" opens the disc, with "Lies Within the Truth" being steady and paced. Some bottom-heavy churning makes "Facing the Unknown" a fave, and "Walk Through Fire" matches its intensity with a flowing backbone.
Virtually every other track stands out as well, with particular attention owed to the strong "To Find a Reason" and the atmospheric and intricate "Torn."

TRACK LIST: New Dimension/Lies Within the Truth/Facing the Unknown/To Find a Reason/Walk Through Fire/Dead in Their Tracks/Changes/Torn/Thirty Days of Night/Sands of Time

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