Druid Lord: Grotesque Offerings

There are no doubt hundreds of metal bands claiming inspiration from classic horror movies. I've enjoyed many of these bands over the years but I prefer those that bring elements of horror directly into the band's larger aesthetic, not just into the lyrics or song titles. In Druid Lord's case, the music draws deeply from classic horror icons such as Lucio Fulci, Mario Bava, Dario Argento, and John Carpenter. Like those directors, Druid Lord creates something that drips with atmosphere, terror, suspense, and gore. The band's style of death / doom is both despairing and crushing. Just listen to the terrific opening notes on "Black Candle Séance." Those notes show off the amazing guitar tone on this album, one that is rich and warm and dark. I never get tired of solid riffs and this album has tons of them. The bass also frequently stands out and provides a nice addition to the overall sound. In addition to the guitars, the vocals on this album are superb. The growls suit the music perfectly but I was especially impressed with how clear the articulation was. I know that lyrics aren't always meant to be understood at first listen but this band understands that the words help create the right mood and atmosphere.

I won't comment on every song but I do want to mention that the album opens with a few measures of horror-sounding organ music, a perfect invitation to the music that awaits. I know that some readers may think a spooky organ is just a cliché but it sounds perfectly natural on this album. I actually wanted even more! Musically, Druid Lord belongs in the death / doom camp but the touches of atmosphere, including two killer short instrumental tracks, definitely put this album in a death / doom / horror category. Some horror metal belongs in scary movies. This album is one of those. It would be a cool soundtrack but it also stands on its own as a scary and crushing work of horror music. The best tracks on the album include "Black Candle Séance," "Creature Feature," and "Murderous Mr. Hyde." I also enjoyed the aforementioned instrumental tracks "Into the Crypts" and "Final Resting Place." I recommend this album to any fan of classic horror. Make sure you check out the cover art on this album, too. It's awesome. Enjoy—but don't listen to it with the lights off!

Track Listing:
1. House of Dripping Gore
2. Night Gallery
3. Spells of the Necromancer
4. Evil that Haunts this Ground
5. Black Candle Séance
6. Creature Feature
7. Into the Crypts
8. Murderous Mr. Hyde
9. Last Drop of Blood
10. Final Resting Place

Added: January 10th 2018
Reviewer: Carl Sederholm
Score:
Related Link: Bandcamp Page
Hits: 1514
Language: english

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