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Reverend Bizarre's iconic debut album, "In The Rectory of the Bizarre Reverend," originally released on November 24th, 2002, has solidified its status as a cherished cult classic. It stands as one of the most legendary albums within the realm of traditional Doom Metal among the newer generations of fans.
This re-issue of the album arrives in the form of a double vinyl, complete with an intricately designed lyric and photo booklet by Albert Witchfinder himself. Additionally, it includes a substantial collection of exclusive bonus materials, available only with this limited one-time pressing:
- a repro of the super rare 8 page promo booklet spread with review copies of the album
- A2 poster of the iconic band portrait in the graveyard
- A3 poster of the original promo flyer design (Crowley)
- A3 poster of the Black Sabbath homage photo
- A3 repro of the early gig poster w/ Minotauri and Spiritus Mortis
- DVD documentary with the band listening to and giving commentary on the album 20 years later, subtitled in English.
Side A: 1. Burn In Hell! / 2. In The Rectory Of The Bizarre Reverend
Side B: 1. The Hour Of Death
Side C: 1. Sodoma Sunrise / 2. Doomsower
Side D: 1. Cirith Ungol
Reverend Bizarre epitomized the essence of doom metal by drawing inspiration from legends like Black Sabbath, Candlemass, and Saint Vitus. Rather than merely emulating these influences, the Finnish trio redefined the genre, infusing it with a slower, weightier, and more theatrical style.
Their debut full-length album, "In the Rectory of the Bizarre Reverend," showcases the band at its zenith. Comprising a vocalist/bassist, a guitarist, and a drummer, the album is characterized by its deliberate pace, driven by bass-heavy compositions. The down-tuned guitars and thunderous drums set a brooding tone, while the vocals are expressive and charismatic.
The album kicks off with "Burn In Hell!"—an apt opener with its forthrightness and captivating monotony in the rhythm section. "In The Rectory" highlights the band's prowess, transitioning from a slow, reserved start to an explosive, energetic climax.
The mood takes a somber turn with "The Hour Of Death," a dark and majestic ballad filled with theatrical mourning. "Sodoma Sunrise" follows a similar structure to "In The Rectory" but exudes a more triumphant and psychedelic vibe.
"Doomsower" offers a brief respite as the album's fastest and shortest track. It serves as a precursor to "Cirith Ungol," which concludes the album with unparalleled epicness. As the slowest and longest track, "Cirith Ungol" carries an immense sense of tragedy and grandeur.
Albert's vocal performance stands out as a highlight of "In the Rectory of the Bizarre Reverend." His versatile singing alternates between baritone and tenor, occasionally veering into operatic territory. His expressive exclamations add a spectacular dimension to the music, reminiscent of Ozzy Osbourne.
The intentionally naive and sometimes sarcastic lyrics vary from mystique to heroism, romance, and a touch of badassery. The combination of Albert's charismatic vocals and these unique lyrics elevates the album's intrigue.
"In the Rectory of the Bizarre Reverend" stands as a flawless album, a masterpiece that lacks any weak points. Its expert songwriting, artistic vocal delivery, and embodiment of doom metal's core elements make it not only a tribute to the genre's '70s and '80s classics but also a timeless classic in its own right—a monumental work of 2000s doom metal.
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