Review:

on 2012-10-03 Michael_Morrison Said:

Most would agree most popular artists out there have something truly special to give to their fans. This goes above the typical attributes like raw talent, amazing songs, nice voice, or even a very marketable look, sound and image. There's something truly infectious at the core of these artists that simply makes us feel good when we listen to them. Whatever "it" is - they all seem to have "it".

Today I listened to the latest CD from Fates Maze featuring Tim Carlson who hails from Minnesota. Carlson just released their latest CD entitled: Gothic Dreams in 2012 and venturing to his website I get the impression this is one guy thats extremely determined and passionate about their songwriting craft and know what it means to be a no holds barred Rock n Roll artist.From start to finish this CD delivers and is a very entertaining musical experience from beginning to end. It pushes hard and has an aggressive Hard-Rock quality to it, and even dabbles in Classic Hair Metal and Alternative Rock popular in the late 90s. It also reminds me of Screaming Trees, Alice in Chains, Meatloaf, Days of the New and even Zack Wilde. Any fans of any of these musical styles or bands will enjoy this latest release. It's clearly marketed for those who like a male vocal front and playing that never lets its guard down. I get the impression Carlson is letting it all hang out via this compelling 14 track line up. In other words he hits the mark remarkably well by just by being who he is musically. Favorite tracks include (Find a Way), (The Viking Age) and (Thinking of You). All songs strike the perfect balance between rock, alternative rock and in your face Melodic Metal. The songwriting is impressive and digs a bit deeper than the next independent band. Within each one of these pieces Carlson captures lightning in a bottle as he bares his soul and delivers what I would call pure musical mojo. It offers much in the way of passion and compelling-thought provoking lyrical content. The playing is spot on and just makes the whole CD even more enjoyable. The overall vibe of the production is very defiant, rebellious with pockets of mayhem shining through.

I see fates Maze as a diamond in the rough, with an amazing amount of potential. As time goes by we will no doubt hear more from this artist. I also wouldnt be surprised to hear his music on the Radio someday or even in a video game or a Reality TV series. In close most famous artists out there have "it" I'm not so sure what it but Fates Maze has whatever "it" is.

Michael Morrison
West Lothian, Scotland (UK)
Rating: 6/10