Alchemy X is one of the more critically acclaimed progressive rock/metal bands in the U.S. today. Compared to the likes of Dream Theatre, Queensryche and Fates Warning, AX has managed to carve out their own identity in the metal genre, fusing technically brilliant writing/playing with an extremely melodic yet concept-oriented approach to their records. Striving to find the perfect balance between virtuoso playing and emotive passages are what have driven the band on their first two efforts, 1999's "A Delicate Balance" and 2002's "11:59:59". Personnel includes Rob Schreiber and Chris Fox each on 7-string guitar, Steve Ratchen on keyboards, backing vocals and 7-string bass, Chris Scorsese on drums and percussion, and Tom Engel on vocals and keyboards.