Review by Jack on April 10, 2002.

Horizon’s debut album “The Sky’s the Limit” is a perfect example of a completely and utterly average power metal album. Sure, there is nothing specifically wrong with “The Sky’s the Limit”, Horizon was formed in 1998, so these boys have got a decent amount of playing experience with each other (don’t take that the wrong way). All chords are played expertly, it is a semi-diverse power metal record, with examples of heavy metal and progressive sections.

While the elements that make “The Sky’s the Limit” in the good category are pretty decent, there are just as much ordinary attributes that bring them down to earth with a slight thud. Horizon seem comfortable playing within their niche of metal and not really trying to expand upon a basic power metal sound that they have started. If Horizon are content and happy to bring out semi-decent, but definitely not mind-blowing albums like “The Sky’s the Limit” then I see good luck and congratulations to them. But the fact of the matter is that I believe that no-one is truly satisfied with their musical output at the end of the day, and I guess that is why we often see more than one album from a band.

From what I can gather “The Sky’s the Limit” is a concept album based upon human choice, being ‘Caught in the Middle’ and striving to live out your dreams. That in itself is pretty cool, as I do enjoy a good concept and story to my albums.

Bottom Line: While being a pretty average record and there are better albums out there, Horizon’s debut contains some pretty interesting musical thoughts; the track ‘Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is’ is one such example of the potential these guys have. Average-ish.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 6
Atmosphere: 5
Production: 7
Originality: 4.5
Overall: 5

Rating: 5.5 out of 10