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CRUACHAN
"The
Morrigan's Call" (Candlelight USA; 2007)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Ireland is not typically associated with metal
of any kind—at least not on a worldwide scale. It does appear that Ireland
does have a creative well-spring of bands playing heavy music. Cruachan is the
only Irish band that I am currently aware of that has somewhat of an
international footprint. Cruachan have slowly been building their audience
through the release of four albums, one special single, and a special
limited-edition box set of their first three discs. “The Morrigan’s Call,”
originally released outside the North and South American areas in late 2006,
receives its official release on this side of the Atlantic in Winter 2007.
The Celtic influence is very prominent on “The Morrigan’s Call.” In fact,
initial spins of “The Morrigan’s Call,” especially if one were to be a
first time listener of the band, indicate a band that is alternating between
black/traditional metal and traditional Irish folk music. However, further
spins of “The Morrigan’s Call” and closer inspection reveal more rock,
medieval, and classical influences.
The lyrics focus on traditional Celtic themes
and appear to be somewhat conceptual.
Just like it took me some time to get used to Tempest’s “The Double-Cross”
it takes a while to soak in the diverse influences of Cruachan’s “The
Morrigan’s Call.” Cruachan won’t appeal to all fans of the metal genre
but, for the adventurous type, “The Morrigan’s Call” is a worthwhile
musical experience.
“The Morrigan’s Call” was produced by Cruachan.
Cruachan: Keith Fay on vocals, guitars, keyboards, bodhran, mandolin, and
percussion; Karen Gilligan on vocals and percussion; John Ryan Will on tin
whistle, violin, banjo, bouzouki, and keyboards; John Clohessy on bass; and Joe
Farrell on drums. The band is careful to point out that little in the way of
samplers or synthesizers are used – the traditional instruments gives the
album an honest presentation.
For more information visit http://cruachan.metalfan.nl/.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2007 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
