IN VAIN is a Power Metal band from Spain who seem to favour the rougher, grittier style of bands like GRAVE DIGGER and RUNNING WILD. Their sound is generally crunchier and rougher than the average polished-up Power Metal band, and the style really works for them. “Dawn Of Misery” may only clock in at half an hour of running time, but IN VAIN never let their energy level falter for even a second, resulting in a rather enjoyable specimen of Power Metal.

Versatility is the name of the game on “Dawn Of Misery,” and versatility is always something that I’ve held in high regard. The title track opens the album with a blisteringly heavy number, while the band decides to go in a completely different direction with “Wild Pirates.” This rum-infused ode to banditos on the high seas smacks of that Power Metal-meets-drinking-song charm that RUNNING WILD is so famous for. “Insanity” simply provides a catchy melody, and there’s nothing wrong with that. “Jerusalem” starts off with a Thrash groove before hightailing it into Melodic territory. “Nightmist” has quite a few Proggy parts to it, and “Fields Of Darkness” is just an anthem-like, fist-pumping, kick-ass Metal number. The songs really couldn’t be any more different from one another.

I have to say, I’m rather impressed by IN VAIN. By keeping “Dawn Of Misery” short, they’ve effectively weeded out any and all filler, so that everything that remains is purely killer. Fans of heavier Power Metal fare will love IN VAIN, and yet, so will fans of just plain ol’ beer ‘n’ denim Heavy Metal. Their style will appeal to many a Metalhead.

(Online July 13, 2008)