REVIEW: MORIAH – Fallen Fortress

 

MORIAH – Fallen Fortress

Arkeyn Steel Records

This double compilation CD gathers the complete recorded output of the U.S. power metal band Moriah, whose name derives from the Elvish term for the mines of Khazad- dûm, in Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Musically, the band operates within the tradition of American-style technical power metal, emphasizing precision, high‑energy execution, and a clear sense of ambition in their compositions.

The first CD includes their 1990 demo and 1991 EP, while the second presents a 1993 live demo and an unreleased 1994 studio demo. This chronological structure allows listeners to follow the band’s evolution across their brief but focused activity.

Moriah perform with confidence throughout the material. Vocalist Doug St. John delivers consistently powerful high‑pitched lines that will appeal to fans of classic U.S. metal, and guitarist Noah King provides sharp, technically adept playing that defines much of the band’s character. Their performances stand out as the strongest elements of the compilation.

Among the tracks, the ones that left the most lasting impression on the first CD were “Fallen Fortress,” “Tomorrows Time,” “Holy Child,” and “Caught in the Wheel.” From the second CD, “The Other Side” and “Eternal Love” emerged as the most compelling pieces. These selections highlight the band’s ability to balance technicality with memorable melodic ideas.

The release is further enhanced by a thick, information‑rich booklet that offers valuable context about Moriah’s history and recordings, making it especially appealing to collectors and genre enthusiasts.

Overall, Fallen Fortress succeeds as a comprehensive archival release, gathering all existing Moriah material into a single, accessible package. Fans of U.S. power metal—particularly those drawn to technically inclined early‑’90s bands—will find this compilation well worth exploring.

Ioannis Kaskamanidis