Iced Earth--The Dark Saga

Iced Earth--The Dark Saga (1996) Rating--9.2

An extremly strong album. This sounds like what Metallica should have/could have released around the Master/Justice era, instead of the 'Black' album. This album is based on the comic book Spawn, and recounts several themes of the first 10 or so issues of the series. Some really super vocal arrangements, as well as the best guitar sound the band has achieved (Schaffer says he only uses Gibsons, for those wondering). The songwriting is tighter than on the previous releases, and the result is a less thrashy feel in some places, but a "heavier," more punishing sound. Some of the older fans weren't completely happy with the only-occasional double-bass drumming, but much of that can be attributed to the band having to use a studio drummer for its recording sessions. Again---the result is less speed and thrash, overall.
The rhythm guitar work of Iced Earth has always been its strength, and this album really shows that off. Think of the really great two guitar bands---Maiden, Priest, Metallica, etc. The twin axes give the music such depth and power, and that's what we have here.
Highlights include the thick and heavy title song, the solidity of "The Hunter" and "Depths of Hell," shards of thrash and early-career speed from "Violate," and the end-album trilogy ('The Suffering')---especially "A Question of Heaven".
There are no fillers on this album, as it keeps getting better and better. If you love old school power, please support this band---we need more like them.
HOT CHOPS--The rhythm guitar work in "The Hunter" is absolutely amazing. Also, listen to the female vocal work at the end of "The Hunter" and at the end of "A Question of Heaven". It seems like the voice of Barlow's sister-in-law (?) was recorded several times over to sound like a chorus of angels, and they are supposed to be "battling" the hellspawn. Quite emotion-driven and effective.
TRACK LIST: Dark Saga/I Died For You/Violate/The Hunter/The Last Laugh/Depths of Hell/Vengeance is Mine/The Suffering: (Scarred/Slave To The Dead/A Question of Heaven)

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