DARK FOREST is a traditional metal band from England that sticks true to its roots, from traditional fantasy to mystical, old-school metal. Inspired by Rudyard Kipling's story "The Puck On Pook Hill," this concept album sticks to the natural theming while banging out a rocking, melodic sound. Overall, it's a vintage-sounding find, and I highly recommend it for fans of LED ZEPPELIN, IRON MAIDEN, or BLACK SABBATH.

The prelude song "Ælfscýne," is a tranquil, folk-sounding guitar piece reminiscent of a mandolin. In the background are river and bird noises that make the listener feel like they're by a brook in the woods. When they continue with their first full-length track, "Wayfarer's Eve," begins like a post-rock song with high-pitched before sliding into a galloping power metal riff. With a squeal form a guitar, we're treated to a soaring melody reminiscent of fantasy. The vocals are clear and operatic, though with a slight pop quality in the shallower timber. While the soaring melody and overall tone continues in the next song, the key change and depth of the vocals set it apart from the last song, so it doesn't sound repetitive. The harmonies are there, but they sound muddled in production, so each part doesn't come through as clearly. It's not terribly unclear, I just think it would work better if each of the sections were more distinct in the song. "Avalon Rising" is the band's seven-minute ballad. For most of the song, it features a galloping melody akin to the first two tracks. The guitar solo was what made the song. Beautifully composed and riffing off the main track without copying it, it was an intricate and beautifully composed part of the song. They follow it up with the title track, a nearly twelve-minute ballad. It is mainly done in waltz time and begins with a calling narrative about the emptiness of nature. There isn't too much in the way of key changes to engage the listener, but it is a solid ballad. It's also followed up by a much faster, riveting song to change up the variety, which is always a plus. The closer begins with a faster but soft sweeping riff that evolves into a march. The instrumental closer, "Heart Of The Rose" acts as an outro and I believe it's an uplifting, excellent choice for a finale song.

Most of the songs feature galloping riffs and a soaring melody, but the band does a good job of mixing it up with different sounds. I personally enjoyed the way the riff built in "Avalon Rising." The way it started reminds me of a 70s light rock song and increase in intensity to an epic power metal ballad. I also love how the songs morph if they change at all with little experimental interruptions. With the exception of a couple production hiccups, I believe this is a great listen. For this album, it preserves the natural tone and contributes to the woodland themes. If you're a fan of traditional metal, especially if you love mystical themes, this an album worth checking out.