THE SPECTRE WITHIN

The sophomore album by Fates Warning is much more mature. The band was beginning to put their own stamp to progressive heavy metal. There are dynamic shifts in drumming, various sections such as mellow jazzy sounding guitar in "Traveler in time". We have great riffing rooted in heavy metal but more adventurous, listen to "Orphan gypsy". There is a level of epicness in most compositions, not only by their length but also execution with guitar playing and ornate vocals, similar to Iron Maiden. "The apparition" showcases improved songwriting and memorable memories. It fits Arch vocals perfectly. "Kyrie Eleison" is a great fast heavy metal track before reaching the most ambitious number "Epitaph". Though it changes moods, the elements are still quite conventional, it is great hearing background keyboards in the instrumental part. The last part of the song is quite slow and solemn but feels slightly forced. Overall, a solid heavy metal album with some prog elements.