Picture yourself stepping into a dimly lit chamber, where the air is heavy with the scent of incense and the sound of distant chants hangs in the air like a veil. This is the world of GOAT MAJOR’s debut album, “Ritual” – a place where darkness reigns supreme and the line between reality and fantasy blurs.
As you press play, you’re immediately engulfed in a whirlwind of sounds of occult stoner/doom. The guitars roar with a ferocity that sends shivers down your spine, while the drums pound like the heartbeat of some ancient deity. It’s as if you’ve been transported to a forgotten realm, where the laws of nature no longer apply and the only currency is the raw power of the riff.
And then there are the vocals – a primal howl that cuts through the noise like a knife. Tom’s voice is a force of nature, conveying a sense of desperation and longing that is both haunting and hypnotic. His lyrics, filled with imagery of occult symbols and ancient rituals, paint a vivid picture of a world steeped in mystery and danger.
Of course, “Ritual” is not without its flaws. At times, the relentless assault of sound can feel overwhelming, leaving you gasping for air amidst the onslaught. And while each track is undeniably powerful in its own right, some may blur together in the listener’s mind, lacking the distinctiveness needed to truly stand out.
But these are minor quibbles in the grand scheme of things. “Ritual” is a triumph of atmosphere and emotion, a testament to the enduring power of music to transport us to places we’ve never been and emotions we’ve never felt. It’s a journey into the heart of darkness, guided by the steady hand of GOAT MAJOR as they lead us deeper and deeper into the abyss.
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Released by Ripple Music on March 8, 2024
