Masterstroke: As Days Grow Darker

Finnish Melodic Power Metaller's, Masterstroke, have a killer record on their hands with the release of their 3rd album, As Days Grow Darker (Dynamic Arts Records). 11 tracks of guitar driven, riff heavy Power Metal mixed with clean, elegant vocals with big atmospheric interludes that harkens comparisons to bands like Nevermore and Mercenary. From the double bass drums and the guitars following in their path from the word go of the album opener, "Wait For The Fall", Masterstroke are keen on getting your attention and keeping it!

Masterstroke's vocals are handled by Niko Rauhala, who has a voice reminiscent to the infamous Warrel Dane of Sanctuary & Nevermore, but more on the melodic tip than Dane. So add that vocal styling to powerful, riffy songs and you get a great end result. Songs are dark and even sometimes haunting, like the track "Into Oblivion". Another stand out track is the killer "Old Wounds", with the nasty, must headbang to, opening riff that brings you in and then takes a 180º turn, to only bring you back again. Nice!! Detuned guitars just add that extra heaviness and lead guitarist, Markus Kekoni, adds some electrifying solo work throughout the disc.

Sonically, this is an excellent sounding record with great production that gives these songs an added dimension that allows them to jump out and grab you instantly. Drums are deep and pounding while guitars are up in the mix, laying the foundation of heaviness and the vocals are crystal clear. Masterstroke's added use of keyboards all over As Days Grow Darker, as both in spatial ambiance and dueling with the guitars is also pretty damn cool. Simply put, As Days Grow Darker is just a great record and if you dig Melodic Power Metal, snag this record right quick!

Track Listing

1. Track Listing
2. Wait For The Fall
3. As Days Grow Darker
4. Walls Of My Temple
5. Unstoppable
6. Another Step Back
7. Purity Fades
8. Stillborn
9. Into Oblivion
10. Inside Myself
11. Old Wounds
12. Truth Revealed

Added: March 5th 2011
Reviewer: Butch Jones
Score:
Related Link: Band MySpace Pave
Hits: 2152
Language: english

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