UMUR "Forgotten Realms" is the first demo recording by Danish heavy metal act Avalon. The demo was independently released on cassette tape in 1987. Avalon formed in 1987 in Copenhagen, Denmark, and disbanded in 1989 after releasing two demos (this one being their first). After Avalon split-up guitarist Ken C. Jack (Ken Jacobsen) moved to the United States and subsequently formed Unleashed Power. Drummer Flemming Larsen later became drum technician for Metallica´s drummer Lars Ulrich.

"Forgotten Realms" features three tracks and a total playing time of 12:04 minutes, so it´s not much material or time you get to learn about Avalon and their music. But after listening to the demo it is clear though that Avalon were a highly professional and skilled unit. Their songwriting is strong and the material is memorable melodic heavy metal with the occasional nod towards US power (only the rare moment though). Their performances are of a high quality too. Strong vocals, sharp, melodic, and hard rocking heavy metal riffs and rhythms and some nice lead work too.

As "Forgotten Realms" also features a well sounding production job, which doesn´t necessarily screams demo sound quality, this is overall a very good quality first demo from Avalon. A 3 - 3.5 star (65%) rating is warranted.