A few notes
One of the mid to late 80's bands returns with a compilation of tracks that consist mostly of covers with a couple of new tracks. A homage of sorts to some of the bands favorite artists and tracks, this album intends to be enjoyable and a tide you over 'til the next studio disc. Looking back a few discs, one may wonder with some of the experimentation the band was doing, what approach did they take to these tracks??
The Tracks
The first cool thing for me is that the track selection parallel's my own taste. Some of my favorites are 'Dead, Jail, or Rock 'n Roll' originally done by Michael Monroe, former frontman of Hanoi Rocks. Also, 'Toys in the attic' by Aerosmith and 'Hair of the dog' by Nazareth. Can't forget 'Down payment blues' by AC/DC or 'Surrender' by Cheap Trick. Good versions of classic tunes. The band has done a good job on the tunes keeping them in the tradition of the original. So how about the 2 new tracks?? Included are 'Sub Human' and 'Face'. 'Sub Human' is a rocking number that is pretty true to old school Warrant music with just a touch of modern edge. 'Face' is a good sounding track that is laid back and then crunches through the chorus. A couple of pretty decent tracks from the band.
Overall
This is a pretty good effort. Take it for what it is, an in between disc with some cool covers. While this may not appeal to everyone as some on't like cover based discs, the one thing that stands out is the sound the band is using currently. I feel good about the next release based on the sound and direction of the 2 new tracks. More cool Warrant music without the bad aftertaste of a few years ago!
A few notes
Dark Moor is a melodic power metal act from Spain consistent in nature with bands like Rhapsody and other acts that incorporate majestic type metal with content dealing with the Dark Ages. The band is fronted by female vocalist Elisa and is a six member force. 'The Hall of the Olden Dreams' is their second full length release for Arise Records and also has a mini live album with bonus unreleased tracks.
The Tracks
This band really sustains a heavy sound. Elise pulls off the vocals very well. With the intensity of the music it can sometimes be a bit hard to not get lost in the shuffle. Not the case here. The tunes have great melodic element and come across memorable. Take for instance tracks like 'Maid or Orleans' with it's precision guitar attack and great choruses or 'Mortal Sin' with it's authentic feel and attitude. If you like the lighter side and added depth, then 'The sound f the blade' is just for you. The tracks are very consistent throughout the album all varying in intensity but staying in the same structure. The band actually had a few opening gigs with Demons and Wizards. Probably a decent matchup.
Overall
Dark Moor is very tight and precise in their approach to their music. If you are one of those that doesn't mind a female fronted metal band, this band will definitely have appeal to you. The album might not be as easily found in the States, but should have some distribution in other parts of the world where the scene is embraced a bit more warmly. Recommended to fans of the melodic power metal movement.
