SAMMY BERELL – Beyond The Veil

Neo-Classical Metal Maniac

From Stockholm, Sweden comes the sophomore album by guitar virtuoso Sammy Berell – Beyond the Veil. Sammy Berell is a veteran guitarist who only recently began his solo career, and so far he’s off to a great start with flying colors. Though comparisons to Yngwie Malmsteen are obvious from the start, Sammy Berell has plenty to offer on his own merit. Beyond the Veil features the vocals of Mark Boals (ex-Rising Force/Yngwie Malmsteen), furthering the comparisons and similarities.

Sweet Strat Sounds

The album was recorded, mixed and mastered by Martin Sweet for Dark Force Records. With 8 tracks coming in at just over 38 minutes, Beyond the Veil feels to be just the right length with a mixture of instrumental as well as vocal themed songs. The guitar work is excellent, as expected and Mark Boals has not lost a step vocally as his work here is great. While Sammy Berell is most often playing within the same classical scales as Malmsteen, he also jazzes it up occasionally, adding another layer of depth to the music.

Final Notes

They say imitation is the highest form of flattery, and that said, Sammy Berell is paying a huge complement to Yngwie Malmsteen, and then some. The songs are all great to listen to, staying within the Neo-Classical Metal framework. While Sammy Berell’s talent cannot be denied, it would be interesting to hear him step out of the footsteps of giants on future releases. That said, Beyond the Veil is a really strong listen, and worth a spot in your Neo-Classical Metal collection.

Lineup

Sammy Berell – guitars
Mark Boals – vocals

Beyond the Veil – Tracklist

1. Devil Dance
2. Night and Day
3. All the Devine
4. Pure
5. Angel of Mercy
6. Time for Goodbye
7. Sonata “Beyond the Veil” Andante
8. Pegasus “War Suite”