Review Summary: A surprisingly great release from a not so great band.
Let me be the first to say i dislike power metal. It is a very cheesy genre about swords, dragons, demons and burning skies. It is a genre filled with wailing vocals, guitar solos that are way too long, and songs which run about 5 minutes longer than they really should. This album is no different. But what makes The Power Within much better than the rest? To be honest, I can't exactly put my finger on it but I do know that I enjoy this album quite a bit.
One very important aspect to note is that this is the least DragonForce album that DragonForce has ever released. Most of the songs are cut down to a respectable length of about 5 minutes each. Because of this, I feel like the songs never seem to get boring and they don't tire themselves out before reaching the end. The lead guitar has taken a drastic change for the better and has cut down largely from its usual 5 minute wank-fest. Of course, it is still present, but much of it has been swapped out for soaring guitar melodies that are catchy and add much to each song. With the release of The Power Within, DragonForce finally has physical proof that they indeed do have a bassist because he is finally audible and does have his few moments to shine which sound good and are well placed.
The Power Within is DF's first album with new sing Marc Hudson. Marc is an upgrade from the previous singer in ever possible manner. He can sing in multiple ranges and sounds great in each one.
The Power Within also sees the band exploring a few different sub genres and combining them with their classic signature sound. Seasons is very metalcore influenced and turns out to be one of the greatest tracks on the record. Give Me The Night shows some thrash metal influence and Cry Thunder sees the band going back to the roots of power metal for its sound. All around, this album is much more varied and interesting all the way through than their previous releases.
Recommended Tracks:
Wings Of Liberty
Seasons
Fallen World
Cry Thunder
