Isbjørn

Artist: Ghost
Album: Opus Eponymous
Year: 2010
Chronological position: Debut album
Genre: Hard rock/heavy metal
Expectations before listening: Epic doom, but softer and with more hooks than ordinary doom metal

I stated earlier that all my doom metal reviews would be in the doom section, but after listening, I don't really think this is doom. It says doom in the title, but that's only because that's what it was called when we selected it in the club. Anyway, what do I think of this praised-to-death, mystical, Swedish metal sensation called Ghost?

Well, I guess they're alright, but hardly more than that, in my opinion. Why? Well, their lyrics are nothing new; Satanic and occult themes have been there ever since God created Metal. They're not even doing it with style or originality, so instead of being offended, I'm just a little disappointed that they decided to jump on the Satanic bandwagon instead of getting a little more creative. Alright, their anonymity and stage performances are original, but their lyrics aren't. The song “Elizabeth” is fine, with its lyrics about Hungarian Countess Báthory rather than (*sigh*) Satan. The music isn't really outstanding either. The band members know how to play their instruments, but I think they could put some more soul into it. The drumming could need some variation, so could the solos, and even though the vocalist is talented, he should put some more power into his singing. He doesn't really fit as a metal vocalist in my opinion, but maybe as a pop vocalist. Conclusion? This is only half metal, and nothing to get all excited about, but if it came on the radio, I certainly wouldn't turn it off in disgust before regurgitating. Nice try.

2.5/5

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