STARBORN are newborns to the scene, having only been around since August 2014. Originating from Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom, "The Dreaming City" is their second release. They had a limited tape release run of their first release "Born by the Wind". Their sound is comparable to BLIND GUARDIAN with a sprinkling of IRON MAIDEN.

When listening to any Power Metal band for the first time, I always wait anxiously for the vocals. Vocals can make or break any Power Metal band. If the vocals are bad, it ruins the whole experience. STARBORN does not fail in this aspect. Bruce is one hell of a vocalist. He expresses a very wide vocal range in these mere five songs. STARBORN surprised me, I will be honest, I listened to "Born by the Wind" before this EP and I wasn't impressed, it was mediocre at best. But after the first few seconds of "The Dreaming City", it is very clear that they have evolved immensely in such a short space of time. Storming in with their opening track, "Triumphant Resolve", it is evident that this band means business. At about two and a half minutes in, we're blasted with a guitar solo. Being a guitarist myself, I can find myself being sometimes over-critical of guitar solos. I'm a firm believer in guitar solos fitting a song. Too many bands use guitar solos to "show off" their talent. But, alas, STARBORN do it right and use their solos to compliment their music.

"A Merciless End to Words" is my absolute favourite track. It has some 80's thrash elements and Bruce is absolutely on point with his vocals. He proves he can reach lower notes with his vocal range, as well as the piercing high notes, which I didn't think was possible for a male to do. This track is extremely catchy. So catchy that I even caught myself singing it in the shower! It is melodic, yet can still evoke some brutal headbanging.

STARBORN do what every band should do - work together. Everything in this EP works so well together. The drums, vocals and bass are all on point. As for the guitar, Adrian Smith is that you?
STARBORN may be newbies to the scene, but they are made for huge things. "The Dreaming City" displays the true diversity of the band; they are constantly switching up moods and tempos and trying new things. They have progressed immensely since "Born by the Wind". Watch out for STARBORN, playing an arena near you soon!<