Havayoth (what?!) is the project of A. Hedlund (aka Vintersorg, also in Borknagar an Otyg), M. Norman (aka Vargher of Ancient Wisdom, Bewitched, Naglfar) and M. Hansson (aka Mad Morgan of Naglfar). This debut album can be called a metal record just barely. Talking about "his creation", Havayoth sound kind of sacred music. Maybe it is some melodies or compositions, that make this sound like music you would hear in a church (I wasn't born an atheist, sadly). But as you can see, this is about reversing the thing. Maybe this is anti-church music, then?! Well, gothic influences also cause this, of course.

The metal bits are heard only in guitars, taking influences from older Paradise Lost and such. Mr. Norman's playing is the highlight of this album, easily. Tasty solos like on 'Teloah' are just joy to listen to. This is never heavy but always more atmospheric, still easy to follow, almost poppy and romantic at times. And this really distracts me for a big part. A lot of synths (well used, have to admit) and a drum machine (okay-ish) are important components, and as too many times, the drum machine doesn't make this any better. Mr. Vintersorg's vocals are all clean, and in weaker form here as usually. Male choirs sound simply romantic, so maybe this could go down well with female listeners.

This album is quite paradoxical. Metal or something else? Give it a try, if Vintersorg's calmer moments, Paradise Lost's newer releases or easy gothic music with distorted guitars interest you. I thought it would be more spacey and dauntless judging by a cover art...

Rating: 5 (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
02/21/2003 15:46