Lavagoat - Ageless Nonsense (Album Review)

Album Type: Full-Length

Date Released: 2/12/2014

Label: Bandcamp

‘Ageless Nonsense’ DD track listing:

1). Ageless Nonsense

2). Triton's Doom

3). Worms of the Earth

4). Satanico Pandemonium

5). Ice Giants

6). Cauldron

7). Black Lotus

8). Cimmerian Fury

9). Trans Arctic Gulfs

Lavagoat is:

Sean Skidmore | Bass, vocals

Graham Tempelman | Drums, Hammond, vocals

Graeme Burke | Guitars, vocals

Jimi Diederichs| Guitars, Noise,  vocals

Review:

Hailing from the far off land of Saskatchewan, Lavagoat bring with them their second full length offering, the curiously titled "Ageless Nonsense." Whilst this is my first foray into their world, I'm already excited after seeing the album artwork. I have a feeling I'm going to enjoy what comes next......

It's immediately clear that these guys mean business. They're slowly coming for you like a 10 foot zombie and although you're trying to outrun them, they're going to catch you and they're going to lay waste. An opener like the title track "Ageless Nonsense" tells you everything you need to know. It's slow. It's mean. It's heavy and with vocals akin to a cave dwelling creature of mythical proportions, the band displays an almighty groove with a real malevolence to boot..... And it just keeps coming.

"Triton's Doom" manages to be both catchy and entirely devastating with a closing riff that'll make you wonder where this band has been all your life. "Worms of the Earth" kicks off with a sinister Sabbath-esque vibe before delving into another monolithic assault on the listener. The formula is becoming clear, these guys are having a 70's riff party but they're doing it in a staggeringly heavy style. This is none more apparent than on the irresistibly captivating "Black Lotus". A song so instant and so memorable you'll be scratching your head wondering where you've heard it. Things take a turn for the epic with album closer "Trans Arctic Gulfs" layered with menace and that feeling of familiarity, it's an 11 minute opus that's as mesmerising as it is rewarding.

"Ageless Nonsense" makes for a supremely entertaining listen. It's an undeniable groove bomb powered by a truly ferocious vocal that'll have you nodding your head in seconds. A snarling love letter to the Gods of old while remaining vital at all times. It's bands like Lavagoat, making this great music for no other reason than the sheer thrill of it, that truly deserve a beer in the air, a tip of the cap and a swift purchase of their wares. You won't regret it.

Words by: Rhys Miles

You can pick up a copy here.

For more information:

Facebook | Bandcamp | Twitter