When I first put this disc into the CD player, a huge smile crossed my face within the first 30 seconds or so. A dynamic duel guitar intro brought back memories of when power metal ruled, assaulted my ears. Then this voice that rivals Bruce Dickinson himself lets loose with the epic rocker "Out of Control" and my introduction to one of the best underground metal bands I have ever heard is complete. Miles Beyond is just that, they are far beyond the normal run of the mill metal that I get inundated with every day.
There is a power and mastery that soars and swells with each guitar solo and dynamic vocal burst by Tim Moody. Tim and fellow guitarist Paul Owsinski create a wall of sound that reaches truly phenomenal proportions throughout this disc. As they trade leads you will be swept away with the raw energy generated by this dynamic pair of metal warriors. Imagine Iron Maiden on their best days and you have what's in store for you with this hidden gem.
These boys, who call Flint Michigan home, capture a sound that is both very familiar but at the same time so very new and fresh. Taking epic metal into places that very few can even come close, this is a band that should be up there amongst the ranks of the afore mentioned Maiden or even Judas Priest. It is clear that these guys are superior musicians and I was surprised to find out that these very young dudes have only cut this one album. I would have suspected some very seasoned professionals but this is a group in its first stages of growth. The potential is almost frightening.
Listening to their self titled song "Miles Beyond" I was totally blown away by the melody line and instrumentation they produce. They can just flat out play! If you like epic metal and virtuoso guitar this is a must have disc. I cannot think of a CD that I have enjoyed so much from start to end in recent memory. There is not a weak spot and the music is so sweeping and majestic that you will fall under their spell without a doubt.
The funny thing is I haven't even mentioned the best that they have to offer on this disc yet. For shear power and ultimate regal metal, Miles Beyond gives you the tasty "Vlad the Impaler". This anthem of all that is metal is one of the most dynamic moments on the disc. Of course that is like picking your favorite child as there is not a let down anywhere. You can also turn to songs like "Hail To The King" and the mighty "A Call to Odin" for a mega dose of finely crafted epic metal. Each of these songs will have you looking for your steel blade and suit of armor. The cool thing is that they not only touch on the sword and sorcery side of this genre.
Starting off with the sound of a horse whinnying, you are going to be plunged into the world of the Indian Wars with the powerhouse "Crazy Horse". I guess if Maiden can have their Run To The Hills, then Miles Beyond can take it a step further with their own ode to a trying time in our history.
I started writing this review quite some time ago. Then I saw that this band was going to be the local support for the Pagan Knights tour. I thought that I would set it aside until after I saw them on the same stage as the likes of TYR, Suidakra and Alestorm. Not only did they hold their own, they reinforced my feelings for them in the first place. They are just as dynamic as a live act and proved to me on this night that they deserve their place among the best in this field. Remember the name Miles Beyond. It is one fated to become a force in the world of heavy metal!! This band is Miles Beyond the competition.
Track listing:
1. Out of Control
2. Tales of Old
3. Miles Beyond
4. Take Me Back Home
5. Vlad the Impaler
6. Still Strong
7. The Spaniard
8. Hail to the King
9. rock Revolution
10. Stowaway
11. Crazy Horse
12. A Call to Odin
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