Music review: Darkthrone - Goatlord (1996)

Yeah, I'm fully expecting the "contrarian hipster" label with this pick but no matter, I can take it. Objectively, A Blaze in the Northern Sky is their best, if this can temper some reactions, but I simply find it much less interesting and unique than Goatlord.

Even knowing that it was mostly recorded around 1990 (just after the quite dark Soulside Journey) and that the possessed vocals were added latter to that demo doesn't dull the surprise. The sound is just that striking.

Roughly, this takes the pinch of Finnish eeriness that was present in their debut, turns it into a full cup - to the point of matching Demilich or Demigod's Slumber of Sullen Eyes, complete with otherworldly harmonies, weird groove and slow, ritualistic dirge segments - and adds a very raw, but also very clear production quite different from the usual Norwegian subdued "recorded in a crypt" thing.

The result is alien, haunting, almost psychedelic; and look at that cover art… I just cannot fathom how a sincere extreme metal fan could spurn it, it just doesn't make any sense. In fact, this RYM review soundbite got it right: Your opinion on Goatlord is like the ultimate litmus test for what kind of Metalhead you are. Under produced dross, a stupid throwback to before they were good reveals you to be a complete fucking tourist who should leave the hall

So, 10/10? I was tempted, to be honest, the short 37 minutes runtime helps keep the sound fresh and novel, but even then, some of the last third ends up feeling a bit redundant. Removing the 8th and 9th tracks (even without replacing them) would have been a positive, I say.