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DARK FOREST - DARK FOREST
EYES LIKE SNOW / NORTHERN SILENCE PRODUCTIONS
METAL TO INFINITY
These guys are from England - formed in 2002 by guitarist / vocalist Christian Horton and bass player Dave Batham. Addicted to the mighty forces of Classic Heavy Metal, the idea to set up a band inspired by historical Metal giants like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest lingered on… some other musicians came offer itself - they were all passionate by Traditional Heavy Metal music ... Dark Forest's line up was completed - the guys were ready to Rock!
As far as I know, Dark Forest released three successful demo's which attracted the attention of old school Metal maniacs - also concert organizers or festival bookies showed up to work something out with the band what means that they were delivering a good job to the Metal community! Dark Forest had the opportunity to share the stage twice with legendary NWOBHM band Cloven Hoof. Make notice that DF guitarist / singer Christian Horton is also active in Cloven Hoof these days... with these legends, he's in charge as axeman only! Original founder of the band named Dave Batham left the ranks and was replaced.
The making of a first, full length album could not stay away... through Eyes Like Snow / Northern Silence, Dark Forest's self titled debut output is ready to unleash - I received a promo as familiarisation with the band at first, also I'd like to share my thoughts with all of you by the grace and passion for old school Metal.
From the first song, 'The Battle Of Broken Hill' it was immediately clear Dark Forest name of the game can be irrevocable described as Classic Heavy Metal with vibes coming on strong out of the NWOBHM scene. The combination of both styles to work contagious. Influenced by bands as early Iron Maiden, Angel Witch or Running Wild - Dark Forest gives away a nice setlist of good acceptable tracks those who take me back into the glorious days of 80s Metal. They're far from original because there are so many, uncountable other groups playing a similar style but it doesn't bother me at all. Nowadays bands playing a vintage form of Metal music, I'd like to praise them to heaven - they keep the real spirit alive and that's great to me.
The longest song on the CD is also my favourite one, it's called 'Excalibur' and breathes Heavy Metal in its purest form. Great melodies, blasting twin guitar moves, nice breaks... you won't bother yourself for sure. To be honest, I have too say that my personal impression concerning the vocal use is not that good - dignity: below the average. To me, Christian's guitar works are fully enjoyable but he's not able to caught my attention with his way of singing. The power and strength to sing as it should be is lacking. Sometimes Christian's throat sounds quite straight between the lines, sometimes he goes far outside which led to unstable, boring vocal lines. It's a pity argument to tell but that's how I feel about it. It's not irreversible - work on it in the near future is recommended and I definitely believe he will succeed. To wipe my dissatisfaction of the table, you better should hear a magnificent instrumental composition entitled 'Hollow Hills'. If you're in a band able to create such a great song, you have the right to call yourself a well skilled formation.
Subject to a few adaptations concerning the vocal use, I'd like to make an appointment right now for Dark Forest's next album that probably will see the light within immense times. Before that day will come, enjoy their first album with full force first of all. Traditional Heavy Metal and NWOBHM to meet each other like true brothers and sisters do! Order possibilities at: www.northern-silence.de Band info via: http://www.myspace.com/darkforestrealm MY POINTS: 82 / 100