Review by Tobias on March 13, 2001.

I was looking forward to hearing this album. Any band that can continue writing songs about literary works and turn it into a concept album will always pique my interest. But I have to say, I didn’t exactly expect to hear Ronnie James Dio Junior.

This is the type of power metal that has guitar licks reminiscent of Yngwie Malmsteem and… Dio. There’s a little bit of a Savatage sound to it with some Iron Maiden influences, but it just doesn’t get as heavy as the mountain kings.

Back in the eighties, these guys would’ve had something pretty good going, but for right now, I think that they need something a little different. Retro styles of almost any kind of music can be really cool, but I think it’s only truly successful if something new is brought to the table. Unfortunately, I don’t really see that happening in Desert Land.

What I do see are some guys that have a lot of talent that need a little creative direction. Some of that creative direction should really focus on the vocals. While they provide us with Dio-esque nostalgia, I think they need a little more beef and brawn. I’m not asking for growls, just something a little more manly.

Bottom Line: This is Dio-Lite mixed with a little fat-free Savatage. It isn’t bad, but you’d better hear it before running to the store to buy it… even if you are a big power metal fan.

Rating: 5 of 10