The Flashcards: Pathfinder - Beyond the Space, Beyond the Time (2010)

85/100

Genre: Symphonic power metal

Pathfinder could easily become an icon of Polish power metal through this debut album. Fast classical riffs and epic fantasy symphonies bring the spirit of Rhapsody (of Fire) to life, accompanying Przemyslaw Uliczka’s lead vocals, which sound similar to Tommy Reinxeed/Majestica. This is further elevated by guest female vocals from Agata Lejba-Migdalska, who frequently sings in a soprano register. Harsh, raspy vocals are also used to portray certain characters, which I clearly don't care for, even if it is for the sake of a concept story or something similar. This performance also shows up during the main act on the title track, which is actually the flagship song. Another interesting moment is the similarity of the melody and riffs on "Undiscovered Dreams" to a certain song that I still struggle to recall to this day.

After typing this out, looking at the bigger picture, this album truly deserves more appreciation. They stand as a great entity existing after Rhapsody (of Fire) and Dragon Guardian, also as predecessor of Twilight Force, from my brief perspective. Even though, as I mentioned, those raspy vocals do take away from the listening comfort for my ears.

Tracklist:

1. Deep into That Darkness Peering...

2. The Whisper of Ancient Rocks

3. Vita Reducta Through the Portal

4. Pathway to the Moon

5. All the Mornings of the World

6. The Demon Awakens

7. Undiscovered Dreams

8. The Lord of Wolves

9. Sons of Immortal Fire

10. Stardust

11. Dance of Flames

12. To the Island of Immortal Fire

13. Beyond the Space, Beyond the Time

14. What If...

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