Review by Jack on July 11, 2001.

When I say mcd/demo, what I mean to say that it was previously demo material that was on mp3.com, and now an intelligent label has finally decided to sign these champions of dark metal up, Rage of Achilles is the intelligent label, that should hopefully catapult this band into extreme metal limelight. And they thoroughly deserve.

Forest of Shadows are comprised of two members: Micce Andersson (responsible for bass, guitar, programming, synthesizers and violin) and Niclas Frohagen (guitar, programming, synthesizers and vocals). Influencing these overly talented musicians are outfits such as Katatonia, Opeth, My Dying Bride and Anathema. All fantastic bands in their own rights. All radically different. What Forest of Shadows does is take the best elements of each band, for example the somber parts of My Dying Bride, the cool solos of Opeth, and the heartfelt lyrics and vocals of Katatonia. But don’t make the mistake of thinking that Forest of Shadows rip any of these bands off. They are completely innovative and unique.

Niclas’ voice is extremely hard to describe, and I wouldn’t really do it justice to try and compare, or pigeonhole it with any other extreme act of today. Extremely deep, guttural roars that have a nice hollow sound to it. His clean voice is essentially indescribable, its unlike anything I’ve heard in metal today, suffice to say its fresh and compelling.

“Where Dreams Turn to Dust” is comprised of three songs spanning nearly 30 minutes, that equates to epic songs in the tradition of Opeth and My Dying Bride. Never boring or drab each of the three tracks is unique in composition. All tracks are equally awesome and as a result there is no real standout track, only standout tracks.

Bottom Line: Go to www.mp3.com, downloading a few Forest of Shadows, support this band by buying their upcoming mcd, and I guarantee they will change your perception of good, innovative metal. Forest of Shadows will go very far in future years.

Rating: 9.5 out of 10