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Track Listing: Doom Herald Power Monger Golden Idol Midnight Wraith Broken Oath

Darkblack, a traditional metal outfit from Portland, Oregon, recently released the follow-up to their 2009 full-length release "Sellsword", in the form of a five-song EP titled "Midnight Wraith". With changes to their line-up since the release of that album, Darkblack injected some fresh enthusiasm into their songwriting and overall musicianship, and I was very much looking forward to this release.

"Doom Herald" has a strong Black Sabbath feel to it, featuring some excellent twin guitar harmonies that gel together with the vocals, creating quite a powerful melody. Aided by a tasteful Maidenesque solo, it will go down as a very well rounded tune and one that should please all traditional metal connoisseurs. "Power Monger" is a slightly darker, more down-tempo track that has some good hooks, specially when it comes to the guitar riffs. It is very interesting in the sense that it's reminiscent of Iron Maiden's "Piece Of Mind" album, while still keeping the more old-school, 70s heavy metal flavor. I get a vibe from it that's similar to songs like "Flight Of Icarus" and "Where Eagles Dare".

"Golden Idol" continues this magnificent EP with yet more traditional goodness and delightful guitar solos. It's a very easy-going track and is appropriately placed in the center of the EP. My favorite song comes next, the title track "Midnight Wraith". The main riff is just amazingly dark, powerful and atmospheric and is certainly the most standout riff of all. It kept ringing in my mind for a long time after I heard it for the first time last month. Even though the riff carries the song singlehandedly, it also consists of a beautifully composed slower segment that leads into the final track "Broken Oath", a perfect ending to a glorious set of songs.

I find absolutely nothing bad about this EP, and it gets full points from me. The music perhaps reflects the murky Portland environment they spend their lives in, and not surprisingly, live shows with their kind of music would be more suited to the smaller, murkier club venues as I discovered for myself, seeing the band perform at Hollywood's Cinespace bar and lounge. The music is endearingly well crafted, and every fan of traditional metal should get this.

Darkblack's "Midnight Wraith" is a terrific effort at performing the monumental task of carrying the traditional metal flag, and not only succeeds in its endeavor, but leaves the listener eager and hungry for the next full-length offering. Darkblack rules! \m/