Beyond The Sea is the 5th CD by Spain's Dark Moor, but the first containing this lineup. Daniel Fernandez makes his debut on Bass. Alfred Romero (vocals) and Andy C (drums) complete their second CD with Dark Moor. The only original member is guitarist Enrik Garcia (Guitars), giving Dark Moor a single guitarist for the first time in its history. The music is straight forward melodic metal containing interesting melody and counter-melody with-in the songs.
Although Beyond The Sea starts off with five distinct and exciting pieces, it quickly looses steam and becomes a little redundant. "Before the Duel" reminds me of Kurgan's Bane and is powered by a great Hard Rock rhythm grove. "Miracles" comes in a little more accessible and then you get pure metal with "Houdini's The Great Escapade". "The Silver Key" has excellent drumming which keeps this from sounding too much like a Triumph track.
"Green Eyes" attempts to slow things down but Romero's vocals just don't have the power to pull a ballad off. From here out the rest of the CD has a tired feel. "Going On" has a Dream Theater tinge going, but never reaches that height. "Beyond The Sea" blends a hard rock sound around a Metallica counter-melody. The chorus begins to sound the same as in "Green Eyes" and "Going On" and the overall sound begins to get a little stale.
Beyond The Sea, being the first CD of this new lineup, shows great potential. I recommend this CD for anyone that wants to hear this potential and the really good opening quintet of songs. With this talent I expect a fuller and more consistent release next time. To alleviate the repetitive nature of some of their songs, Dark Moor may wish to bring in a second guitarist or another instrument to help keep things fresh.
Track Listing
1) Before The Dual
2) Miracles
3) Houdini's The Great Escapade
4) Through The Gates of the Silver Key (Interlude)
5) The Silver Key
6) Green Eyes
7) Going On
8) Beyond The Sea
9) Julius Caesar (Interlude)
10) Alea Jacta
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