by John Kindred
— Publisher —
Thomas Amoriello returns with new music for Metal fans. Dear Dark is a five-track EP exploring Amoriello’s Metal leanings that emphasis searing and shredding lead guitar.
This go around the guest list includes Ronni le Tekro (TNT), Glen Drover (King Diamond ex-Megadeth), Alex Masi and Toby Knapp (Onward).
The core of the recording line-up consists of Brazilian vocalist Carlos Zema, drummers – Ken Stravopoulos and BJ Zampa, bassists – Emilio Martinez and James Amelio Pulli, keyboardist Anthony Stahl, with additional vocals provided by Bellatrix Serra (Magic Wand and Milan’s Dream).
The EP offers fans a brief foray into Amoriello’s musical world. The underlying guitar work is traditional Heavy Metal progressions. Zema’s lead vocal performance is captured on “Dear Dark,” “This Burning Evil,” and “Magic Wand (abracadabra).” After several listens, it’s hard to say that he is a great fit for the material. There are many stylistic changes happening here, perhaps his vocal would have been better with a more straightforward vocal attack. “Magic Wand (abracadabra)” seems to be a bit all over the place vocally, distracting from the musical arrangement.
“Thirty Four Strings of Fury” is an instrumental shredding blitzkrieg! Very nice.
“Milan’s Dream” closes the show down. With Bellatrix Serra featured here, she sings a pretty melody with a male vocal providing a harmonic interchange. The music is a classical arrangement, acoustic guitars and keys providing support.
Sort of an odd addition amongst the heavier tracks.
As a fan of Thomas Amoriello, this is just a minor taste of his musical explorations. Dabbling in some different elements may make the EP a bit un-cohesive. Hopefully another full length CD is in the works.
Genre: Metal
Band:
Thomas Amoriello Rhythm and Lead Guitars
With special guest musicians:
Carlos Zema – Vocals
Emilio Martinez – Bass
Ken Stravopoulos – Drums
Anthony Stahl – Keyboards
James Amelio Pulli – Bass
BJ Zampa – Drums
Bellatrix Serra – additional Vocals on Magic Wand and Milan’s Dream
Guest shredders are Ronni LeTekro, Glen Drover, Alex Masi, and Toby Knapp.
Track Listing:
- Dear Dark
- This Burning Evil
- Thirty Four Strings of Fury
- Magic Wand (abracadabra)
- Milan’s Dream
Label: Shredguy Records
Web: http://www.thomasamoriello.com | https://shredguyrecords.storenvy.com/
Hardrock Haven rating: 
(7 / 10)
