Pentagram--Sub Basement
Southern Lord 2001
When you think about doom metal, there are two bands who rise above all the rest--Spirit Caravan and Pentagram. If Spirit Caravan is the right, Pentagram is decidedly the complimentary left. With Sub Basement, Pentagram are back to remind the world why they have been, and continue to be, the leaders of doom's left-hand path since the early 1970's.
As with Pentagram's previous album, Review Your Choices, Sub Basement is comprised of half new material, with the other half being reworked versions of classic 70's Pentagram tracks. The result is even more effective here than it was on Review Your Choices, which says alot. Sub Basement features reworked versions of such classics as "Buzzsaw", "Out Of Luck", and "Target". Each of these specific revisions feature sections augmented by a unique chorus effect which gives new life to the songs. In fact, the new rendition of "Buzzsaw" is actually better than the 70's version which appeared on the Human Hurricane CD, making it the ultimate highlight of Sub Basement.
Of course, the new material is great, too--standouts being "Circles" and "After The Last". However, you can't talk about Pentagram without allotting space to give attention and reverence to the amazing vocals of frontman Bobby Liebling. Technically, there may be other vocalists more sound, but rock and roll isn't rocket science--it's something that comes from the heart. There are few vocalists who have ever lived better than Liebling at making you feel that heart. He is without question one of the greatest of all time, and arguably the best the metal world has ever known.
Pentagram has come through once again, just like you knew they would. It's justice being served that people are finally starting to wake up and take notice of this band, the way Pentagram truly deserves. Sub Basement should only help to further fuel their revival. As much of a sure thing as always--another instant classic from Virginia's greatest natural resource..
Score this CD directly from SOUTHERN LORD
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