This is Sabaoth's self-titled debut album after two demos released earlier in the 1990s. Music is based on black metal, but it has leanings to other directions. This is definitely metal when compared to their latest, 'Windwalker' (1999), which is more like goth rock (I do not like that album at all, I do not like goth rock at all, heh)...

Gothic atmospheres and blackish wrath parts shake hands on this debut album. The gothic elements come in forms of bad "one-finger" synths and rather romantic, cheesy melodies on some of the songs. There are some good melodies in general and they bring individual feel to Sabaoth's music. Any South American vibes aren't heard, but some I think I hear some proggish stuff. Some of the songs are quite long and following them to end isn't always an easy task, because too much is simply too much. Vocals are typical black metal hissing, while I think lyrics aren't usual black metal stuff, but can't be sure because they aren't printed. Sound is clean, but powerless. Playing isn't precise, but this still does add atmosphere when compared to all bands performing similar music and use a drum machine.

Sabaoth's debut is an okay album with some individual elements. Nothing ground-shattering for sure, but dark metal people are welcome to check this out for cheapish price. A very average album.

Rating: 5- (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
02/21/2003 13:41