For those who do not know, Dawnrider is the side project of Majesty's Tarek "MS" Maghary.
To be honest, I am unfamiliar with Majesty (I have heard of them, but have never heard them), and bought this album
on the strength of an MP3. Dawnrider is a story that preceeds a book that Tarek is writing and is also a story unto
itself. This project/story is a who's who of 'underground' metal.... with contributions
from members of Majesty, Paradox, Wizard, Rebellion, Paragon, Razorback, ex-Manowar, Manilla Road etc. and Rob Rock!
What a confusing opening paragraph....lots of info....little organization.
The music can best be described as epic, true power metal. The music is pretty
straight forward the catchy hymns and epic choruses. Nothing flashy or complex, but entertaining nonetheless.
I don't find it tiresome or overly cheesy either...I was afraid I might, but then again...I did play Dungeons and Dragons
in junior high.
The vocalist are all pretty good. I already liked the vocalists from Wizard and Paragon
and of course Rob Rock and was pleasantly surprised with several others, especially Johanna Mott from Midnight Symphony.
She has a very pleasing voice. I also kind of like Tarek's semi-rough voice as well. For the most part, each guest
vocalist shares their song with Tarek, either verse-chorus or verse-verse chorus.
A well-done album. The production could have been a little stronger, but I am
guessing they we're going for that 'underground' feel. Good stuff.
Favorites: When Our Troops Unite, They Conquered, Fate is Calling, Dawnrider, Revenge
84 / 100
