The Dark Saga
(1996, Century Media)
Iced Earth continues to mature and evolve with their fourth release. "The
Dark Saga" is a concept album based on the popular Spawn comic book
series. It tells the story of a man who sells his soul in order to return
to his true love on Earth. But he soon discovers that she is married to his
own best friend. He is left completely alone in the world, and although he
has good inside, he is influenced by dark forces. Everything that he desires
is denied, even his own death. Fans of earlier Iced Earth albums might notice
the change in the musical style to fit with this dark love story. The focus
is less on technical musicianship (although the playing is still as impeccable
as ever), and more on creating a complete story through sound and words.
Thus, the music is generally more dark, emotional, melodic, and simple than
other Iced Earth albums. This is not to say that the songs are uninteresting;
to the contrary, some of the most amazing Iced Earth songs appear on this
album. The crushing heaviness and power remains, but it is entwined with
beauty and grace, creating Iced Earth's most thoughtful and emotional work
to date.
Tracklisting:
01 . Dark Saga
02 . I Died for You
03 . Violate
04 . The Hunter
05 . The Last Laugh
06 . Depths of Hell
07 . Vengeance is Mine
08 . Scarred
09 . Slave to the Dark
10 . A Question of Heaven
Band:
Jon Schaffer - Rhythm Guitar, Vocals
Matthew Barlow - Lead Vocals
Randall Shawver - Lead Guitar
Dave Abell - Bass Guitar
Mark Prator - Drums
Guest Musicians:
Recorded at:
Morrisound Studios - Tampa, Florida
Produced by Jim Morris and Jon Schaffer
