The French powermetal band Nightmare
formed in 1979, many years later they are still rockin’ out. For those
unfamiliar with the band, they have an old school power metal sound, with
some of that rockin’ feel. Symphonic power parts as well. A few bands
they are reminiscent of are Hammerfall, Rhapsody, Edguy, Kamelot, Iced Earth,
and Savatage. Actually that should be the other way around because Nightmare
was first. There are parts that you would expect from bands of this type,
however they seem to use other, more basic riffs maybe a little too much.
Kinda dulls the music a little. A few of their unique parts partially loose
those tracks for me. Instead of being dynamic, those instances were a little
annoying. But they do have solid solos and nice melodies throughout, which
stabilizes the album. Passionate vocals are worthy of a mention as well
and they work great with their music. A couple tracks have sparingly used
death growls. They seem a little out of place; nevertheless they aren’t
bad. The thirteen tracks and over sixty-five minutes were recorded at Soundsuite
Studio. Tristania and Green Carnation have recorded there previously. Most
of the tracks are solid. A few that rose above the rest for me include “Endless
Agony”, “Circle Of The Dark, ” and “A Taste Of Armageddon.”
The last of which has a video has made for the track. A few guest appearances
are also on “The Dominion Gate,” include members from After
Forever and Pretty Maids. Power metal devotees unite!
Rating: 76
Reviewed By: Jeffrey D. Adkins |
