INTRODUCTION

This was a real find for myself and I have to thank Torrod for his interview with one of the members for that. According to the liner notes SHUB NIGGURATH used this recording (in cassette form) in preperation for the tour they were going out on. Udi Koomran (who else?) did the transfert and mastering and he did an amazing job as usual. So this is where it started for the band. It's the same lineup that was on the legendary "Les Morts Vont Vite" an album I always play at Halloween. And while this particular cd isn't as dark or as intense as "Les Morts..." believe me there is plenty of darkness and tension. It's very similar in style in fact. Actually the opening track here also appears on "Les Morts..." Piano is ever-present on this album and we also get lots of harmonium and trombone. And of course bass, drums and guitar. Can't forget about Ann's vocal melodies either.They provide an often haunting element. All the tracks were composed by either the piano player or the guitarist.

"Yog-Sothoth" opens with faint sounds that almost hum. The piano around a minute is sparse. It kicks in with power before 2 1/2 minutes including female vocal melodies. It's eerie 4 minutes in then a calm arrives after 5 minutes but it doesn't last long. It's back though 6 minutes in as we get a dark atmosphere. An almost frightening outburst of sound follows then guitar. Female vocal melodies are next. Haunting stuff. "Entreasol" has this ominous and dark presence to start. It kicks in after a minute. Piano and drums lead the way.Trombone after 4 1/2 minutes.

"Introduction" opens with screams and yelling followed by piano and vocal melodies. Sparse drums join in too. It ends with drums only. "Barback" opens with piano, cymbals and trombone all in a reserved manner. Vocal melodies become prominant 3 1/2 minutes in then the music picks up 4 minutes in. It settles back again then builds with a solid beat and chunky bass. It settles before 7 minutes to an eerie soundscape then kicks back in a minute later with power.The guitar is raw and discordant. Vocal melodies and dissonant trombone before 11 1/2 minutes. Just an incredible display. "In Memoriam" features trombone and piano in a dark setting. Vocal melodies before a minute. It settles before 2 minutes then picks up again.

I'm so impressed with this album, it's even better than I thought it was going to be. A must for fans of their "Les Morts Vont Vite" album. 4.5 stars.