UMUR
"The Beginning" is the first demo recording by US, Wisconsin based power metal act Renegade. The demo was independently released in 1986. Renegade formed in 1985, released this demo and their 1988 full-length studio album "Social Pressure" before changing their name to Mas Optica in 1990.
The demo features 5 tracks and a total playing time of 22:39 minutes. It´s a well produced demo featuring a professional sound production. It´s powerful, detailed, and effectively boost the material. Stylistically Renegade are hard to label, as their music features elements of both power metal/traditional heavy metal with a progressive edge ("Promised Land"), and speed/thrash metal ("Killer Eyes"). Lead vocalist/guitarist Randy Diderrich has a relatively strong voice and his delivery is varied, ranging from semi-speed/thrash metal type vocals, and more melodic and higher pitched power/heavy metal type vocals. The standout performance on this demo comes from lead guitarist Paul Finley though. His leads are not just well played. There is some genuine passion and emotion in his playing, which leaves a big impact.
Considering that "The Beginning" is a 1986 demo it´s a high quality release, showing a lot of promise and although Renegade did manage to put out an album after this demo before changing their name to Mas Optica, it´s too bad they aren´t more known among fans of power/heavy metal metal, because they are certainly a worthy listen. A 3 - 3.5 star (65%) rating is warranted.