For listeners seeking a Progressive Odyssey read on - Terry Syrek’s latest album “Story 2” hits like a blizzard in the fall of 2025. For fans like me, it is an eagerly awaited sequel to “Story” released back in 2021, crafted with refined vision and a world-class ensemble in mind. Trust me, Syrek isn’t an ego trip project from an incredible solo guitarist, rather the album assembled a dream team of master musicians including precision drummer Marco Minnemann, bass attacks from Bryan Beller best known for his work with The Aristocrats, emotion driven keyboard work from Lalle Larsson, plus the folk-inflected textures blended in by Erik Rydvall wielding the nyckelharpa, and Keith Szarabajka returns to narrate the voyage.
Admittedly, Syrek tailored the music around these collaborators, writing the songs with these specific musicians in mind. There is a heavier use of symphonic elements, crafting melodies and harmonic arcs to suit each player’s strengths.
At its core, Story 2 is a concept album, chronicling two creatures on a harrowing journey into the frozen north. Syrek penned the story first, then wrote the score, much like a cinematic approach. In the 15 tracks listeners will find passionate lyrical melodies that will surely give them goosebumps.
If Story was your shredding favorite, Story 2 is its emotional, expansive twin. It’s for players who’ve woken up in the middle of the night thinking in odd meters, and for listeners who enjoy a conceptual album that doesn’t talk, yet still “tells.” Terry Syrek’s latest is not just an album it’s an instrumental epic meant to freeze your spine and spark your imagination.
Releases October 3, 2025
Format Info
Digital Download, Also available on Streamings Services.
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