GOATLORD - Distorted Birth: The Demos (DOUBLE CD)

Tracks 1.01-1.12: Sodomize the Goat (Demo, 1988)

Tracks 2.01-2.04: Demo '87 (Demo, 1987)

Tracks 2.05-2.06: Promo '91 (Demo, 1991)

"Distorted Birth: The Demos" provides a captivating glimpse into the early days of Goatlord, a band that embraced a distinct and unconventional approach to extreme metal. Goatlord's journey, which began in the mid-'80s, saw them shape their sound over time. This collection artfully pieces together demos from '87, '88, and a promo from '91, showcasing the band's obscure yet perverse perspective on extreme metal.

The '87 demo, although marred by a harsh sound quality, hints at the band's evolving style, blending sludgy-doom elements with blackened lyrics and a dose of death metal. The raw, raspy vocals of Ace Still, accompanied by deeply tuned guitars and relatively clear drums, create a unique atmosphere. While the '87 demo offers historical value, it's the '88 demo, "Sodomize the Goat," that truly shines. This demo, though still lo-fi, exhibits a darker and more cohesive sound, foreshadowing the band's debut album. Ace's vocals, reminiscent of those on the debut, blend seamlessly with the slower, black-death-doom style. The music gradually envelops the listener, with heavy guitar chords, bass that reverberates ominously, and a slow, locomotive-like tempo. The electronic drum set, though prominent, takes some time to acclimate to.

The last part features two tracks from a '91 promo, which played a crucial role in the band's signing with Turbo and the subsequent release of their debut album. Despite a grainier sound quality, these tracks reveal the band's evolution. While electronic drums start to make an appearance, they are mostly concealed by other instruments, except for the noticeable 'clicking' of the toms. The snare drum stands out with its harsher sound.

"Distorted Birth: The Demos" is a testament to Goatlord's unique journey, marked by a deliberate departure from the conventions of extreme metal. While the sound quality may be lacking, the band's ability to craft an unparalleled atmosphere shines through. With the '88 demo, which boasts an impressive 12 tracks lasting over an hour, Goatlord proves that less can indeed be more. This collection is a must-listen for those who appreciate harsh production and have an appetite for atmospheric blackened death and doom.

1. Voodoo Mass (6:55)

2. Blood Monk (5:53)

3. Chicken Dance (4:31)

4. Twilight Rem (10:05)

5. Underground Church (4:30)

6. Distorted Birth (9:15)

7. Acid Orgy (6:00)

8. Instrumental (0:53) instrumental

9. Unholy Black Slut (5:32)

10. The Fog (4:03)

11. Possessed Soldiers of War (5:08)

12. Sacrifice (6:43)

1. Possessed Mutants of War (3:52)

2. The Fog (4:01)

3. Unholy Black Slut (4:02)

4. Sacrifice (4:03)

5. Underground Church (4:21)

6. Possessed Soldiers of War (5:07)