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Refreshing… Power Metal from Italy with some serious muscle, now that's something you don't get to see every day, but that is exactly what you get in heaping, heavy doses with Pathosray's second full length entitled Sunless Skies. The album kicks off in thundering fashion with the heavy yet melodic "Behind the Shadows". I would have to say that the overall blueprint for the entire album lies in a combination of Nevermore in terms of the down-tuned heaviness of the guitars along with the stunning melody of early Dream Theater. However, beware, I have to admit that upon the first couple of listens I was somewhat disappointed as I harkened comparisons to the brilliant debut, for it seemed that the songs lacked a measure of originality, but this feeling passed quickly as the fantastic musicianship and razor sharp execution on display on each one of the songs will bring a broad smile to your face – in fact my appreciation for this album has reach the addiction stage.

There are many strengths to discuss relative to this album, beginning with the vocals of Marco Sandron. Some have made comparisons to James Labrie or Russell Allen; that aside, I believe Urban Breed conjures the closest comparison, his voice soaring almost effortlessly over the mix of thundering guitars tones displaying power, passion, grittiness and at times beauty, depending on what the mood of the song calls for. You also get occasional female vocals compliments of Klaaire and Silvia Marchesa. As previously stated there is a ton more heaviness associated with this album, the deeper more aggressive guitar sound bearing a striking resemblance to Nevermore serves to create a much darker sound which enables the Italians to distinguish themselves in a hopelessly crowded field of wannabees.

What Pathosray have brought to the table with Sunless Skies, is a powerful mix of songs that are extremely heavy, yet varied with accomplished and stunning vocal melodies and addictive chorus lines, a Progressive Metal band that is far heavier than anyone else currently wading within the confines of the genre, yet melodious and accessible enough to allow the listener to be able to wrap their arms around the songs without the dizzy, egotistical wankering that is so prevalent within the scene. If you like heavy, straightforward Progressive Metal, buy immediately!