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Right from the start, I can say that Dawn of Valor, from St. Paul, Minnesota, are an ordinary, 80s-influenced Heavy Metal band. Their debut EP, Dawn of Valor, elicited the same reaction from me as most 80s metal albums. However, some aspects of this release, and the band, for that matter, surely points to a bright future.

Laying down the law with four old school US Metal and melodic NWOBHM tracks, and featuring elements of epic fantasy and valor (you don't have to look too far beyond the name to guess that), Dawn of Valor is more than just plain Heavy Metal. What impressed me most was the energy and effort of vocalist Sean Ireldale. His deep and powerful voice creates an almost theatrical feel to the songs. The band makes some modifications to the traditional styles they play, which adds some flavor to the 80s metal mix. This is one of the strongest attributes of Dawn of Valor.

Dawn of Valor's four tracks serve as another reminder of 80s metal, featuring a simple production that delivers the goods. If you like things simple, with some occasional diversity, check this one out.