I don't know how I found Castle Rat
I do know that this sort of stuff is what I really wanted out of Black Sabbath. If you’re reading this, look them up - their visuals are striking and cool.
Song Notes
- “WOLF I” - The build in the beginning is real nice with the repetetive, semi-hypnotic riff going, and when we return with the drums, it’s a good feeling.
- “WIZARD” - Including “wizard” in a bestiary has always seemed silly to me. I do like how this song feels like it’s coming from a high place. The spoken poem partway through and return to the main motif does a nice job of conveying a spell.
- “SIREN” - I wouldn’t have expected a siren to start on drums, but it’s neat. I guess this is more about coming across these creatures than the songs themselves being representative of them, so that makes more sense. That drop into the uptempo drums and riffs is hype as hell!
- “UNICORN” - The chill vibe here works real nicely. I do like the way it blows up again.
- “PATH OF MOSS” - I didn’t think I’d need a come-down in this album, but this is a nice transition.
- “CRYSTAL CAVE” - This feel suitably magical. A necessary rest, confronting the journey so far.
- “SERPENT” - Back on the journey - no idea if we managed to kill the serpent, but that feels deliberate.
- “WOLF II” - The acoustic start feels very dramatic. Is this about Fenrir? I need to listen to more acoustic metal.
- “DRAGON” - Deep and dark from the start. The low rumble of the main riff really sells the depths of this.
- “SUMMONING SPELL” - This is more how I expected “SIREN” to start. The orchestra was delightfully unexpected. Oh, the TEASE that build gives, and then the slow bass rise raised goosebumps. Very well done.
- “SUN SONG” - A good pentatonic drop. I sense an inexorable, intense sunrise. Holy shit this is a long sunrise.
- “PHOENIX II” - The dramatic return to the beginning. What else would one expect from a phoenix.
General Thoughts
- Man this whole vibe is so good. I love this damn fantasy stoner metal stuff.
- I dunno what it is, but when they return to the main riffs, it always feels extra purposeful, not just returning because it’s the obvious spot. I guess it’s because there’s alway ssome sort of progression? I can’t quite put my finger on it.
- I will never, ever, ever get tired of a tiny little blues lick on a guitar appearing somewhere in albums like this. It’s such a weird little tonal pop.
- I need more metal like this in my life. I’m so glad I found Castle Rat.