Artist: Cage CD Title: “Darker Than Black” Reviewed by: Nick Martinelli Reviewed: 5/1/2004

Screamin' vocals, powerful guitars, and pure power metal reigns supreme on Cage's latest release, Darker Than Black. Cage has been on the metal scene for a few years now and is increasing their fan base greatly with each release. They are constantly evolving as a metal machine. Each song blisters through with plenty of metal rage. This latest release sports the best guitar work to date. Dave Garcia and Anthony McGinnis took American Power Metal song writings to the limit and beyond. I could really relate to their guitar playing as a musician. Their playing is extremely ballsy and edgy at the same time. Sean Peck delivers the goods with an impressive vocal performance on the disc as well. His range is unbelievable, hitting everywhere from super high notes to deep growls. So, without further delay, let's get into the some of the highlights that make up Darker Than Black.

Darker Than Black is packed with pounding melodic metal anthems that will leave fans screaming for more. 'Blood of the Innocent' is guaranteed to feed the appetites of any power metal-hungry fan. The guitar work is set to all guns blazing and never lets up. Speedy drumming and thundering bass lines also help define this song's powerful aura. Sean sears away with his 'take no prisoners' vocal style, proving that having a high range is what really makes metal sound so damn cool. 'White Magic' is another metal masterpiece that comes straight from the pits of hell. Sean Peck's vocals give the song many different dimensions. He brought in some black metal-like vocals that really fit the song. I never thought I'd hear a power metal band do black metal vocals, but it worked. Garcia's and McGinnis's guitar playing really stole the show. The rhythm playing is nothing short of perfect. The main lead section is amazing too, as McGinnis shreds through it effortlessly! 'Forces of Freedom' opens with some very patriotic leads that dive into intensive metal riffin'. The lyrical content is very uplifting and spiritual as well. The guitar duo of Garcia and McGinnis shines through again with devastating proportions. Tight, soulful leads are present in many movements, so be ready to shred.

Darker Than Black was a strong step forward fueled by raw unchained rage. Cage really outdid themselves by bringing their musicianship to a higher level. Their previous albums were strong metal albums, but this one really defines Cage's powerful sound. Garcia and McGinnis's guitar tone pushes today's sonic tone boundaries, making their smoking playing even more hard edged. The two make an awesome guitar team that is a force to be reckoned with. Both players have amazing talent and know how to burn up fretboards effortlessly. Darker Than Black is a CD that can be listened to a million times without ever getting old. Each song has something different to offer the listener. Whether it's a fast, thunderous brawl or a slower chug, you'll be left craving more. It leaves me to wonder what Cage's next album will be like.