CD review LUCIFER "Lucifer I"

(8/10) During the last years a duo called The Oath appeared on the scene. The retro band got a lot of positive feedback for their debut, but the two girls disbanded in 2014.

Now one of the two protagonists is back - Johanna Sadonis. The charismatic singer teamed-up with Cathedrals guitar legend Gaz Jennings to write new songs. Having said this, it is the logical consequence that the sound of Lucifer is a hybrid of retro rock, occult rock and doom metal. Inspired by iconic bands like Black Sabbath and Blue Öyster Cult Sadonis and band mates really rocks on the new album. The sound to me is the more doomy metallic variation of Avatarium. At least I was reminded to the Stockholm five-piece when I heard the album the first time. 

Songs like "Purple pyramid" shows that Lucifer really rocks hard. The heavy riff in combination with the powerful vocals, that at some moments become very fragile too, leads to an awesome sound.

The doom cross-references come back in tunes like "Sabbath". I have to say 'nomen et omen'. This goes for the chiming bells in the beginning as well as for the mighty 'Iommi riff' that takes over. This song is a highlight that hits you like a ten ton hammer.

'Morning star' is another bow to Black Sabbath. The tune starts a bit slower before it takes up heaviness, enriched by a galloping rhythm towards the end.

The most diversivied song is the last one on the album. 'A grave for each one' with its Maiden-like guitar parts and unexpected twists is a pure pleasure for ears and mind.

An album that I haven't expected to be that good. Respect.

(8/10)

Tracklist:

1. Abracadabra
2. Purple pyramid
3. Izrael
4. Sabbath
5. White mountain
6. Morning star
7. Total eclipse
8. A grave for each one of us

Label: Rise Above

Genre: Doom Metal

Photo: Ester Segarra