A Book of Shadows

Goat Of Mendes (GoM from now on) have existed for over a decade, but their 4th album 'A Book of Shadows' is the first time I hear their music. GoM's alloy of black/thrash/NWOBHM has been spiced up with folk influences.

Even though the band would be able to compose very much different songs, which they've done to some extent, they do have a clear vision and stay on that course, never trampling too far from their sound. GoM's trademark is the use of three vocalists and there's varying array of voices: clean, shrieked, growled and theatrical vocals (e.g. male voice sounding somewhat similar to Root's Jiri "Big Boss" Valter), both male and female ones. Probably (no lyrics, because I got a promo) playing different parts, songs sound like plays and stories. I think the lyrics are based on Wiccan paganism. Biggest problem with GoM's music is its familiarity, by which actually I mean melodies and riffs. Compositions go from manic thrashing to acoustic parts, from doom and from blackened atmosphere to droll folk. At first it sounds quite incoherent, but spinning the album a couple of times the music begins to take shape, and I bet by reading the lyrics it would help a lot, too. The songs could be a bit too longish.

The production is generally quite raw. Not heavy enough, methinks, and definitely not evil enough during the darkest parts. Drums and bass add some heaviness, but guitars aren't powerful, especially thin lead guitar. At least it sounds organic and quite well balanced. Violin and flute are a nice extra. Sometimes the violin sounds like on Skyclad album, sometimes more My Dying Bride style. The flute does not appear but seldomly, which is a bit sad. Maybe it's too joyous for music which gets darker during the album.

Pagan metal fans should check out many samples available on the band's website. Actually previous album's, 'Thricefold's (2002), three songs sounded much better in my ears. The promo version of 'A Book of Shadows' without any lyrics does not convince me, I'm afraid, but there's very interesting bits and pieces every now and then.

(originally written for ArchaicMetallurgy.com in 2005)

Here you will discover some fast paced German Pagan metal which focuses on themes of witchcraft and occultism.

The vocals are delivered in a Pagan chant reminiscent of Viking metal at times, while at others, launching into "Evil Dead" style vocal doubling. The production here is extremely lacking, with very few mids to punch up the mix. Also, the vocals could be faded back into the mix a touch, they are a bit too upfront for this style of metal.

Guitarists Marco and Larz accomplish some very fast, scalar riffing that is propelled by the double kick onslaught of Ralle. Unfortunately, "A Book Of Shadows" oftentimes sounds a bit more like a demo than an actual record, due to the subpar production.

This could be attributed to the fact that the bass duties were performed on this record by the guitarist , Marco, and the band just decided the lower end tones were not as important to their sound. Vocalist Surtur does a great job of screaming, but his singing voice at times leaves a bit to be desired. "My Book Of Shadows" includes some impressive female vocals courtesy of Maia that while revealing a strong German accent, do much to enhance the atmosphere of the music. She also provides some grim vocals as well, which brings further dynamic to the band's performance. It is uncertain whether the sounds on this track are an actual violin or a keyboardist, as no player is credited with these sounds, but the sounds do enhance the song, making it sound a bit medieval.

"Staff and Chalice, Sword and Stone" is a complex, dark symphony that is initiated by elf-like singing and later on, fueled by a forward thrusting rhythm. Goat Of Mendes show a great deal of potential here and they manage a solid performance, it would be interesting to see what this group could with a better studio budget and a producer that has a better ear for this type of music.

Fans of earlier Mercyful Fate could find this to be of interest if they can get past the album's terrible production.