Fates Warning - No Exit: 25th Anniversary Edition

Prog-metal progenitors’ breakthrough, expanded

While Jim Matheos’ US crew might not be lauded with the likes of successors Dream Theater, Spock’s Beard etc, they did blaze the trail with a series of sterling efforts from the early 80s, and 1987’s No Exit stands as a benchmark (the anniversary being that of the label). As well as the 13 tracks on show, there are three bonuses in the shape of hissy demos and out-takes, but the slipcased album itself stands. The dual guitar tempo-shifting pioneered by Iron Maiden is to the fore from the opening Anarchy Divine, through numerous segued cuts, whether the laid-back electro-acoustic Shades Of Heavenly Death or chugging fuzz riffage of The Ivory Gate Of Dreams. Cold Daze chugs along before the romp of Quietus and Ivory Tower showcases the shrill vocals and guitar that are the band’s signature – a trick repeated by Acquiesence. A bonus DVD adds over an hour of video extras, including 1988 live footage, promo clips and backstage action.

Metal Blade | 14636 2

Reviewed by Tim Jones
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