Dark Moor plays power metal with loads of cool classical
influences and scales. The band sounds a lot like Angra does on its Angels
Cry album, but with much more Euro power metal beats. There are also
some Rhapsody elements mixed in, but without ever reaching the decadent
levels of obscene happiness that the aforementioned Italian classical
fantasy power metal band does. That said, Dark Moor fits pretty comfortably
in what Steppenvvolf calls "elfes and wizards metal"; the band's particular
penchants make me think "Disney metal" would be a better tag.
However, if unabashed, joyful power metal cheesiness
is something that doesn't bother you, you'll find that Dark Moor does
a great job of applying its classical training and influences into something
that may not be groundbreaking, but has its own voice. Speaking of which,
vocalist Elisa puts on a remarkable performance. She may not be poised
to knock Andre Matos off the highest perch of power metal singing, but
she is very competent and her vocal melodies prove to be one of the songs'
strongest points. Also of note is the talented playing of the lead guitarist
and the keyboardist, who provide the music with all the classical influences.
Dark Moor's arrangements are quite well done, avoiding
the cookie-cutter patterns that bands like Primal Fear employ without
end. The only area in the fold that could be improved is the drum arrangements.
While Dark Moor's drummer is without a doubt skilled and does the job
he is given perfectly well, the band relies primarily on only the few
principle tried and true Euro power metal beats, without much variety.
The rhythm guitar and bass are of a similar ilk, acting as a sort of bed
of lettuce to the tasty stuff that the keys, lead guitar, and vocals provide.
Not that this is anything really different from the formula that major
bands like Stratovarius sticks to. This bit of technical criticism aside,
The Hall of the Olden Dreams is an album that I've been enjoying
a whole lot. I keep coming back to it, and Euro power metal fans will
too.
