(Power Metal) [CD] Desert - Never Regret - 2015, FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

DESERT is a six piece Epic Dark Metal band from Israel, formed in 2002. To date, they have released a Demo, an EP, a debut full-length entitled "Star of Delusive Hopes", and now they're back their second full-length album, "Never Regret", containing eleven tracks.

“Chasing the Prey” leads off the album. It’s a short mood-setting number that hints of ominous things to come, segueing into “Assassin’s Fate.” The double bass, hastened pace and twin guitar attack is reminiscent of Power Metal, but the hushed vocals and minor chords deliver a darker sound. Additional instruments dancing in and around the backdrop make for a thicker and more complete experience. “Son of a Star” has a wondrous opening riff and the keyboards take on a larger role. A full on chorus provides some really nice depth to the vocals especially.

Teasing you with soft, organ notes and hushed chanting, “The Wolf’s Attack” doesn’t waste much time heading full bore towards you, yet features a more reserved but still effective chorus which lets a lot of melody shine through. I really like the varied keyboard effects that come in and out of the fray in well-timed bursts. The title track might be the most well-composed and complete song on the album. It has a big sound but once again also a nicely balanced use of vocals and instruments. In “The Road to You” the piano, keyboards and vocals really shine through, especially with the addition of a female guest vocalist, as their contrasting parts meld together so well. In “1812,” you really get the sense of a history lesson. The overall bombast is markedly more magnanimous in between the verses. The folky violin in “Flying Dutchman” is more of a reminder of the album’s commitment to keep the flow fresh and surprising, and makes use of more of the darker element of their sound. I feel as if I am on a Pirate boat heading to the new world, amidst stormy seas.

“Final Journey” is another really strong track, with a nice melodic riff that has a regal quality to it. Fragile vocals and piano in the verses contrast sharply with the full and thick chorus, which makes a bold statement and lingers with me for a long time afterwards. “Imperial Eagle” is an Epic song clocking in nearly eight minutes. Here the slow thumping bass and low end guitar riffs allow the deepness to take full hold of you. The interlude after the second chorus is a really nice addition here as well, with acoustic and lead guitars carrying the melody. Closing the album is the song “Invincible” where once again its strength comes from a great main riff and use of keyboards. As they repeat the title in the chorus, this is exactly how you feel. Though I would characterize this at its core as Power Metal, there is a lot more going on than just that. They also embrace the melodic sense of NWOBHM bands, and darker elements swirling around to give it a really nice original edge. I would be remiss if I did not note how well they use piano and keyboards in this album. It is not overdone, nor with one note left behind, but has just enough of a varied presence to where it provides full support to the compositions.

This is a unique and original piece of music from a band that I feel is a real up-and-comer in the Metal world.

Review written by Dave “That Metal Guy” Campbell for www.metal-temple.com

Links:
http://www.desertband.com/
http://www.metal-archives.com/bands/Desert/37378