Via Nuclear Blast Records
OUT NOW
Words by Daryl Daryl
An album like this has to stand on its own merits, yet I was waiting to find out if it delivered on the promise of their live performances and previous releases. The album kicks off with a box-ticking intro, followed by a groove that is unmistakably Green Lung. The sound is perfectly balanced between the instruments and could easily be slotted into that modern production mould, except the drums sound real, slightly muted almost. And the guitars have an air of room reverb. The authenticity vibe is in place and pushing things along with a pleasant sense of early ’70s reminiscence.
After three songs, any fears that this album might fall short are well and truly dismissed. The riffs and catchy hooks are in place and rocking the classic style as if Jimmy Page himself had been installed into the band. Far from time-warp tunes though, this inspired album cuts a new groove as familiar as pie and mash. Take care with headphones or you might be rocking that tuneless karaoke accompaniment on public transport as the songs hook you in.
After four songs, well, if you’re a Green Lung fan, it delivers. If you’re a new fan, you’ll be happy. If you’re a cynic, the variation in tempo is mildly insufficient to prevent a sense of déjà vu. However, after my favourite track, Black Magick Radio, this is far from a bad thing. And it is an opportunity to praise the production and recording skills of Tom Dalgety, who has created an immaculate capture of the energy as well as the songs. A quick glance at the release notes proved my initial thoughts correct. The band went to an actual studio and recorded actual songs played by themselves, without the crutch of modern audio technology.
The rest of the album; haunted, electronica, classic rock, heavy riffs and groove with sing-along style all the way. Evil in this House stands out for me, deftly dispelling any doubts that might have been creeping into my mind. They really master that tombstone horror sound and milk it for all it’s worth. Together in Death brings a timely change of pace and magnitude, with a previously unexplored dynamic range. From there, the album’s emotional range and brilliance continues to develop, reaching the fitting climax of To the Gallows Born, drawing on the dark history of the Tyburn gallows. After a hand-holding start, they save the best until last.
When the vampires come knocking at the window and the zombie apocalypse arrives, it now has a perfect soundtrack. I’m looking forward to catching them at Bloodstock Festival next year. The only question is, when will you buy in?
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NECROPOLITAN TRACK LISTING:
01. Open the Hellmouth
02. Dance to the Grave
03. Black Magick Radio
04. Necropolitan Line
05. Evil in this House
06. Together in Death
07. Ozymandias
08. Alostrael (Be My Babalon)
09. To the Gallows Born
