Myrath's
debut Hope from 2006, is one of those release I've been meaning to
track down for quite a while, especially after sampling some snippets of
their music. Release number two from Myrath, titled Desert Cal,l
confirms my earlier first impression of this progressive metal band, as
this is one seriously good CD, and a must have for fans of quality
metal. It's great to see a band this good coming on the scene, and
keeping the old guard on their toes. This would have to be the best
progressive metal CD I have had the pleasure of reviewing for Sea Of
Tranquility.
Myrath are from Tunisia, the northern most country of Africa, their
influences shine through in Myrath's music, combining with their adeptly
executed technical metal, Desert Call makes for a thoroughly fulfilling
listening experience.
Desert Call had me mesmerized from the commencement of "Forever And A
Day", as Myrath's colorful music come to life; can these guys perform
or what, like taking the heavy complexity of say the legendary bands
Symphony X and Dream Theater and then combine a fantastic Arabic sound
which really complements Myrath's music. But that doesn't do their songs
justice, you really have to hear this band, they bring something that
is fresh and exciting to the progressive metal genre. Myrath's material
is so very well composed, take track five, "Silent Cries" for instance,
which is a great example of how to write a lenghty song with a catchy
chorus that just leaps out at you, not to mention fantastic intricate
instrumental passages.
The guitar, bass and keyboard work on Desert Call is top notch, and
the vocals, well, they are equally as good. Add a splendid rhythm
section to the equation (yes their drummer does kick ass), and how can
they go wrong? If you want constant quality this album has it, there are
no weak spots, just powerful engaging metal.
Some may say Myrath have the makings to be included alongside
progressive metal's top tier of bands. Myself, I think they are already
there, because you know the music's good when it lifts your spirits and
Desert Call had mine floating. Excuse the language but I fucking love
the eleven tracks on this release, and I can't keep the smile off my
face each time I hear it.
http://www.seaoftranquility.org
