DARK

Based on this album, I might call Metamorphosis "IQ's little brother." There is an enormous number of similarities between those two groups, in both the sound and the style. Even the lead singer sounds a poor man's Peter Nicholls much of the time. While not necessarily a bad thing, this album is padded out with several extended solos, either from electric guitar or synthesizer, both of which outshine the compositions themselves.

"Song for My Son" A static electric guitar riff and flowing synthesizer serve as the spine of the opener. The lead guitar, of which there is plenty, is the real highlight, though.

"The Fight is Over" Mystical, bright synthesizer begins the second track. It moves between more open, electronic passages and gritty rock sections, both of which remain intense throughout. The robotic chanting annoys me, however.

"Hey Man" Electric piano and airy vocals start, but ninety seconds in, the music becomes decidedly heavier due in no small part to rapid drumming and an overdriven guitar. Several guitar and synthesizer solos ensue during an extended instrumental jam in 6/8.

"I'm Waking Up" This song has a simple acoustic guitar with a rather bland vocal melody and performance. It takes its time getting going, and when it does, it consists of a long guitar solo full of long notes.

"Knowing All I Do is Worth Ending" This is a so-so track with some excellent individual performances, but the piece as a whole drags and remains unmemorable. There's a bass groove that doesn't really mesh with the context of the overall piece, but it certainly adds variety. The ending, with that robotic voice, is ludicrous.

"You" Another simplistic acoustic guitar-based song, this has some dull lead vocals initially, but excellent vocals (with a great melody) once the song picks up with fresh drumming and electric guitar.

"Where Do We Go" After a hard-hitting introduction full of heavy guitar and organ padding, the guitarist takes an opportunity to really shine. Once he has finished, though, the piece becomes spacey, with odd noises from time to time, and then the band takes a moderate approach to bring in the vocals. "Dark" The title track is a brief song consisting of acoustic guitar and vocals. Of course, the song wouldn't belong on this album without a lengthy guitar solo.