Bal-Sagoth
Battle Magic
(c)(p)1998 Cacophonous Records
Review by Richard Stuart
"Battle Magic" is Bal-Sagoth's third album, and it is my pleasure to
report it to be an absolute masterpiece. However, to make one thing clear
from the start, this album is not as instant as it's
predecessor "Starfire Burning Upon The Ice Veiled Throne Of Ultima
Thule". Indeed, I was rather disappointed with this album to begin
with, and it took about 10 listens until it's majesty really started to
shine through. I think people not listening to the album enough is the
reason "Battle Magic" has received numerous average reviews.
If you're familiar with Bal-Sagoth's previous album, you'll have a good
idea of what to expect: extreme metal meets sword and sorcery imagery
with lots of symphonic keyboard. However, this album is a definite
progression, with songs like track 8 seeing the band experimenting
somewhat with circus-style melodies and what sounds like sleigh bells!
To begin with, this particular track didn't do much for me, but you
really must persevere with this album, and I've now come to the
conclusion that it's one of their best songs ever!
The production admittedly sounds a little strange at first, but you soon
get used to it. The sound certainly isn't weak however, and if you play
this album loud it is truly breathtaking. There are still plenty of
"Conan The Barbarian" soundtrack type melodies to be found here, and
there's even more keyboard orchestration than before (which is
absolutely excellent, and needless to say about a thousand times better
than most other bands who attempt to use keyboards to add 'atmosphere'
to their music). The musicianship in general is splendid, with very
tight drumming and sharp, cutting riffs. There are also a few
instrumentals, the first of which is the title track itself, which is
surprisingly 'light' sounding -- reminding me slightly of Mozart's Horn
Concerto no. 4!
As before, the vocalist and lyricist, Byron, sticks mainly to narrating
the lyrics in his characteristic deep tone, although he sometimes uses
his more black metal-ish rasped vocal style. In track 6, there's even a
very brief clean singing part. The lyrics themselves are as fantasy-based
as ever, telling stories of warriors, kings and all that business.
He's certainly a rather imaginative chap, and his storytelling fits the
mood of the music perfectly.
Suffice to say, every single track is excellent, although as I said
before, some of the songs may take some time to grow on you. Personally I
think Bal-Sagoth are one of the most unique, talented bands around, and
even if you're turned off by the arguably 'cheesy' imagery, please give
this album a chance if you appreciate quality music.
Back to Index
|
