MYRATH - DESERT CALL - 2010

Myrath's debut Hope from 2006, is one of those release I've been meaning to track down for quite a while, especially after sampling some snippets of their music. Release number two from Myrath, titled Desert Cal,l confirms my earlier first impression of this progressive metal band, as this is one seriously good CD, and a must have for fans of quality metal. It's great to see a band this good coming on the scene, and keeping the old guard on their toes. This would have to be the best progressive metal CD I have had the pleasure of reviewing for Sea Of Tranquility.

Myrath are from Tunisia, the northern most country of Africa, their influences shine through in Myrath's music, combining with their adeptly executed technical metal, Desert Call makes for a thoroughly fulfilling listening experience.

Desert Call had me mesmerized from the commencement of "Forever And A Day", as Myrath's colorful music come to life; can these guys perform or what, like taking the heavy complexity of say the legendary bands Symphony X and Dream Theater and then combine a fantastic Arabic sound which really complements Myrath's music. But that doesn't do their songs justice, you really have to hear this band, they bring something that is fresh and exciting to the progressive metal genre. Myrath's material is so very well composed, take track five, "Silent Cries" for instance, which is a great example of how to write a lenghty song with a catchy chorus that just leaps out at you, not to mention fantastic intricate instrumental passages.

The guitar, bass and keyboard work on Desert Call is top notch, and the vocals, well, they are equally as good. Add a splendid rhythm section to the equation (yes their drummer does kick ass), and how can they go wrong? If you want constant quality this album has it, there are no weak spots, just powerful engaging metal.

Some may say Myrath have the makings to be included alongside progressive metal's top tier of bands. Myself, I think they are already there, because you know the music's good when it lifts your spirits and Desert Call had mine floating. Excuse the language but I fucking love the eleven tracks on this release, and I can't keep the smile off my face each time I hear it.
http://www.seaoftranquility.org