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Myrath: Desert Call

Power/Progressive Metal

Rating: 4.5/5.0

Nightmare Records
www.myrath.com
www.myspace.com/myrathband
Review: Craig Hartranft,  02.08.2010

Coming from Tunisia in North Africa, Myrath is another example of the international breadth of heavy metal. Desert Call is this young power/progressive metal band's second release, following their critically acclaimed Hope in 2007. Heavy and hard-hitting metal underscores many of the songs on Desert Call, but you are more likely to note the intricate piano, soaring guitar work, and deft integration of ethnic musical forms. Desert Call, Madness and Silent Cries are exceptional examples of this trend. Additionally these songs, as does the whole album, demonstrate the formidable depth of every member's musical talent.

While these examples display Myrath's more diverse technical side, you can't escape the strong measure of heavy power metal as found in Ironic Destiny and others. Blistering along with a freight train pace, Ironic Destiny is as much a headbanger as it is well-crafted art. This should please any hardcore fan who insists that, prog or not, the operative word is "metal." Conversely, the following No Turning Back is heaviness and energy tempered by a haunting melody and strong chorus. Still, sometimes things get a little derivative as on Empty Word which has the fast-paced density common in generic prog/power metal (but with a great guitar solo near the end). Then the genius returns with Shockwave which returns to more epic craftsmanship. Basically, with Desert Call, Myrath presents fundamental heavy/power metal strengthened by the diversity and ingenuity of progressive compositions. This work is profound and entertaining progressive metal of greater substance then most passing fare these days. Highly recommended!

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

With Desert Call, Myrath presents fundamental heavy/power metal strengthened by the diversity and ingenuity of progressive compositions. This work is profound and entertaining progressive metal of greater substance then most passing fare these days.

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Here's a fun fact about Swiss legends, Gotthard: their last 16 releases, excepting their debut album, went to number one in their home country, making them one of Switzerland's most successful acts and ... [ Read More ]