History & Biography Debase guitarist/keyboardist Jonas Karlgren and Face Down bassist Joakim Hedestedt formed Nation Beyond. This progressive metal bandreleased its debut album, which was a concept, in 2007 through Burning Star Records of Greece before its US release through Sensory a year later. The label placed a sticker on the cover comparing the band to Evergrey and Savatage. The band was then inactive.
Reviews NATION BEYOND - THE AFTERMATH ODYSSEY - BURNING STAR/SENSORY
Nation Beyond is a young band featuring a couple of so-so known musicians. Despite having both keyboards and female vocals The Aftermath Odyssey is a heavier journey through the annals of prog. Consecrated with a thick and punchy production the band shows off its talent even this early in its game by delivering several strong and substantial songs that will impress fans of the genre. Think of Nation Beyond as a heavy Evergrey. Songs like SoulMates feature pouring female vocalization which tarnishes the album with a trendy label while the song The Last Deceiver shows the band’s more pompous side, although heavy songs like A Rainy Day In hell, War Of The Wasteland or Aftermath go as far sounding pounding on occasion. Again, the sound achieved here is just right with every instrument shining while adding to the strength dosage. The last two songs mentioned make a strong musical and lyrical reference to the Arabic melody and Eastern lands with War... borrowing the same melody Iron Maiden did on Powerslave.
Speaking of themes, The Aftermath Odyssey is a story of war, love and hate complete with the music, lyrics, titles and illustrations that go with it. The booklet is nice-looking and, for a change, not on the cheap side. The band’s anti-war stance and use of clips from the fascists of yore to today also add the necessary effect. The band would do well to drop the keyboards and commercial female screams and concentrate on its abundant talent. In the meantime, Nation Beyond is a progressive crowd-pleaser. - Ali “The Metallian”
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