Here is the cassette tape demo release (yes, apparently they are still doing those) from Italian band Gargoyle, who have recently been picked up by Shadow Kingdom Records. Sounding like it was recorded in a dark, cavernous cave or tunnel, Reborn in Blasphemy isn't going to shock the world with brilliant production values or original song-craft for that matter, but there is a raw, primal, and ultimately powerful feel to these four doom laden tracks that is hard to ignore. "The Lord of the Tentaculars" is more of an upbeat, sort of NWOBHM styled ripper, but the band dole out the slow, monolithic riffs for the crushing "The Highlander", complete with lead vocals that are quite unique, even unsettling at times. "Lady Dead" recalls vintage Saint Vitus with its monstrous riffs and unholy vocal, while the near 9-minute "The Whisperer in the Darkness" sees the band approach funeral doom, an epic length extended dirge into the very depths of hell. Ultimately Reborn in Blasphemy is harsh, ugly, and bleak, but sometimes that's all you really need to make an enjoyable doom album. Call it mission accomplished, and it will be interesting to see what comes next for this Italian band.
Track Listing
1) The Lord of the Tentaculars
2) The Highlander
3) Lady Dead
4) The Whisperer in the Darkness
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