Brutus - Behind The Mountains [Svart Records - 2013]Second release for half Swedish, half Norwegian quintet Brutus and here we have an album firmly entrenched in the early Black Sabbath mould. No computers here as the band plough through 9 tracks of classic seventies metal. Setting off with ‘The Witches Remains’, the first thing that is apparent is the vocalist’s incredible similarity in tone to Ozzy Osbourne. This track really could be a lost Sabbath song. Firm riffing and soloing complete the effect. The Sabbath similarities continue with the more up-tempo number ‘Personal Riot’ and we are transported back to the days of vinyl and Vertigo swirl labels. If this had been released back then we’d be paying vast sums for it today! Next up is ‘Big Fat Boogie’ which stays very true to its name, rocking out in a Sabbath style, closely followed by the slower ‘Blue Pills’ where blue is the colour as we are treated to a bluesy dirge as the singer laments his lot and a storm that’s coming from the bottom of the sea. A great stoner track with a lovely bluesy solo in the middle. ‘Square Headed Dog’ is up next and again we are reminded of classic Vertigo swirl albums, this time in the dirty blues rocking of May Blitz before we hit a classic driving riff that heralds ‘Mystery Machine’. We’re back in Sabbath territory here, almost ‘War Pigs’ as the vocalist uncanny similarity to Ozzy really comes to the fore!
‘Crystal Parrot’ again heads to blues territory and even adds some harmonica to the mix for added authenticity and that true analogue seventies vibe! ‘Reflections’ slows things down again, and features some great sounding Hammond organ. The mood here is trippy and stoned as the anguish seeps through before the songs speeds up and builds to a shattering climax.
Final track is ‘Can't Help Wondering Why’ and we are again in Seventies blues rock territory. The song has a great chorus, good riffs and some nice Hammond organ which conclude things in a fitting manner. Overall then, a great album for those who want more of that early Seventies Black Sabbath heavy rock vibe. It’s all been done before but there’s always room for more of this quality. Dave Biddulph
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