Johanna Sadonis rocks the shit out of some classic Sabbathy tuneage like she stepped out of a bitchin' Stargate. Let's do this!You may recall that when I reviewed The Oath's debut album I was quite impressed with the authentic old school feel of it all. I mean this was some really great tuneage regardless of musical era or influences and such. Sadly, that project never continued past the debut, but luckily vocalist/guitarist Johanna Sadonis began Lucifer, and their first album continues more of that fantastic occult-tinged sound she seems to conjure up so easily - and satisfyingly.
I don't want to say this is just basically The Oath in another form, though the sound is understandably similar. Johanna Sadonis' ethereal voice goes with the music perfectly, giving the whole affair a kind of Heart-goes-proto-metal groove that I couldn't be more into. Helping out with songwriting and guitar work is Garry Jennings (ex-Cathedral/Death Penalty), who gives some tasteful riffing throughout. This thing is classy from the get-go, let me tell you, from the energetic opener Abracadabra to the trippy Morning Star (with a sweet galloping break at 2:46). It's great music that happens to sound like a different era (seriously, it's like someone unearthed an old musical recording vault from the early 70s), rather than just some band aping the sound for a retro cash grab. Authentic and exhilarating from beginning to end.
The Bottom Line: The Oath may have been broken, but Sadonis and company keep the dream alive in her latest outfit Lucifer. Thankfully, with all of the occult-soaked, gothic, protometal vibe intact. Fantastic old school rocking to be had here, folks.
- Genghis will be cranking this album in his new car...