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[ More Music Reviews ]

Myrath: Tales of the Sands

Progressive Power Metal

4.5/5.0

Nightmare Records/XIII Bis Records (Europe)
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by Craig Hartranft,  10.03.2011

Tunisia's Myrath continues on course with their Oriental (near Eastern) progressive power metal on their third release Tales of the Sands. Immediately, the listener will note all those elements that made previous works impressive: fine song composition brought to life by talented and expressive musicianship. The ethnic musical influences range from the nuanced on the title track to more pronounced as within the most excellent Beyond the Stars.

Of course, Myrath has not lost their metal edge. Braving the Sea, Sour Sigh, and Dawn Within offer some big and intense riffage in their arrangements. Yet this is also tempered with subtle color. For instance, there's the bright piano that leads to a burst of big riffs opening Sour Sigh. Or the bass and drum segue about two minutes into dawn Within before leading to an extensive guitar solo.

Perhaps the most interesting element of Tales of the Sands, to these ears, is the integration of more direct, yet expansive, melodic heavy (and power) metal. First notice comes on the attractive groove of Merciless Times (and the near Eastern note attends as well). Later Time to Grow expresses this same motif. Also, Zaher Zorgatti once more proves his versatile skills. No matter the nuances, or speculation for that matter, several listens are required from maximum impact and musical enjoyment.

With Tales of the Sands, Myrath remains faithful to the trinity of elements that has made their progressive power metal a success: intriguing and entertaining arrangements, sterling musicianship, and a expressive use of near Eastern musical notes. Strongly 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 Tales of the Sands, Myrath remains faithful to the trinity of elements that has made their progressive power metal a success: intriguing and entertaining arrangements, sterling musicianship, and a expressive use of near Eastern musical notes.

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