Dark Moor
Beyond The Sea
7.7
Spain’s Dark Moor return with their fifth full-length manifestation of stellar musicianship, myth-laden lyrics, and choral chants. Led a second time around by vocalist Alfred Romero, the five-piece force has composed yet another majestic opus, surpassing most albums that the genre has offered in recent years. Picking up almost exactly where their 2003 self-titled venture left off, Beyond The Sea is unquestionably topnotch Dark Moor in every way, shape, and form. With the latest two releases, the band has really shown substantial progress in rediscovering and reinventing their sound. Slightly less focused nowadays on the classical end of the arrangements, Madrid’s elite power metal act have taken on a much more aggressive tone, even utilizing death vocals here and there.
The elements of power and melody glide on the winds of virtual perfection, and whisper sweetly to the soul while causing the heart to race in excitement; a soothing combination that makes for a brilliant record. An emotional thrill ride, if you will. In addition to a superior production, the foundations of the songs are strong and structured with varied tempos and flawless interplay between each of the five members. Simply put, if you are familiar with Dark Moor and are a fan of their past works, then Beyond The Sea is sure to please.
Overflowing with oceans of tales about legends such as Julius Caesar (on the tune called “Alea Jacta”) and American magician Harry Houdini (“Houdini’s The Great Escapade”), each song is delivered in a precise and immaculate fashion, forging a backdrop for a history lesson that is captivating rather than drudging… if only my school courses were taught in this way, I would have been an honor student. Other high points of Beyond The Sea are the hypersonic opener and first single “Before The Duel”, the ever so catchy title track, and the enthralling ballad “Green Eyes”.
For over half a decade Dark Moor have weaved their fate as epic power metal gods and claimed their station as one of my most cherished bands of any style. Beyond The Sea is only an additional chapter penned in that testament. Do yourself a favor and dive into this one!
