THE CRUCIBLE

There isn't anything about this album that I don't like. This is easily a top five MOTORPSYCHO album for me and I look forward to doing that list in the future. This is also a top five for 2019's Album of the Year list. This is just over 40 minutes long and heavy. And only three tracks including the almost 21 minute self-titled closer. I have to say the new drummer who arrived with their previous album "The Tower" is very impressive. And the art work! Has to be the Pharoah and the Egyptians drowning in the Red Sea.

"Psychotzar" opens the album at almost 9 minutes and riffs hit us right away like getting rabbit-punched and vocals follow. Vocals come and go as the beating continues. Guitar solo after 2 minutes then almost mono-toned vocals before 3 1/2 minutes out of the riffage. More guitar solos then a calm after 5 1/2 minutes. They start to amp it up again after 7 minutes. Great start!

"Lux Aeterna" at almost 11 minutes has some guest reeds on it and female vocals. There's this cool section where the music swells and it's very uplifting after 2 minutes and around 4 minutes and then very late as well. Some intensity on this one as well. The guitar lights it up a few times. Some good contrasts here.

The closer is something else and a surprising nod to KING CRIMSON that pops up around 2 1/2 minutes and late before 17 minutes. Some nice upfront bass here at times. But it's the heaviness, love this stuff. Lots of calms to contrast with the powerful moments. This record took me by surprise I must say. Love at first listen. My music.