American progressive-metal band formed in Connecticut in the early 1980s; evolved from heavy/power roots into key pioneers of progressive metal, led by guitarist Jim Matheos with notable vocal work by Ray Alder.

Reviews document the band's stylistic evolution (heavy/power → progressive metal), key albums (Perfect Symmetry, Parallels, A Pleasant Shade Of Gray, Disconnected), lineup and contributor mentions (John Arch, Ray Alder, Jim Matheos, Mark Zonder, Kevin Moore appearances).

Fates Warning are presented across multiple reviews as pioneers who evolved from heavy/power beginnings into a defining progressive-metal act. Reviewers consistently praise albums such as Perfect Symmetry, Parallels and A Pleasant Shade Of Gray while noting lineup and stylistic changes. Critics highlight Jim Matheos's songwriting, Ray Alder's vocals and notable contributions from drummers and guest keyboardists. Later releases receive praise for craftsmanship though some reviews note occasional sterility in production or unevenness.

For:fans of progressive metal and adventurous metal listeners

 Emblematic from the cover, "Perfect Symmetry" is the album that sets the standards for the mature sound of the American band: taking the leap from what was outlined in the previous "No Exit," which marked a sharp progressive turn in the band's style (born with the outlines of an interesting heavy metal tributary to the more classic NWOBHM), Jim Matheos and company package the first of a substantial series of masterpieces that will deservedly launch them among the greats of progressive-metal, a genre still in the process of being defined in those years.

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 A monument of progressive metal, Fates Warning has returned. Finally.

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 The album is a masterpiece that Matheos and company had never been able to reach...

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