Pentagram Relentless & Day Of Reckoning
Peaceville 2005
By Russell Garwood
Virginia Pentagram, not to be confused with the similarly titled Swedish and Chilean bands, are getting the reissue treatment from Peaceville. Originally formed in 71, these two re-releases showcase the bands sound well; heavily Sabbath-inspired early doom. The slow riffage rings of Iommi, and carries the melodic songs forwards, under which slow, crushing drums and chunky bass constitute a forceful rhythm section. The vocals tend to rely on raw singing, very much of the era, and totally in fitting with the sound. All the instruments are well performed, but somewhat understated; with no showy performances the focus is always on the songs.
Relentless was originally release on the bands own record label as their eponymous debut. Inspiration from the rock bands of the time is still audible in the sound, but classic doom is definitely the order of the day here. Heavy riffs, a power chord-driven rhythm section and occasional solos, along varied songs keeps this all interesting, despite how dated the music sounds. Raw production with a clear mix suits the sound to a tee. This is a must for all fans of classic doom - it doesnt get much more vintage than this! Cool stuff.
Day Of Reckoning sees the band continue in a similar direction to its predecessor. A more polished (but still rather raw) sound heralds increasingly melodic guitars, while cleaner singing takes the forefront, in a more accessible release. Slightly more complex songs and a greater number of guitar solos are about the only other developments apparent from the debut. Another seminal doom album, this too is essential for fans of the genre.
Relentless 7.5/10
Day Of Reckoning 8/10
Official Peaceville website
Official Pentagram website
Peaceville 2005
By Russell Garwood
Virginia Pentagram, not to be confused with the similarly titled Swedish and Chilean bands, are getting the reissue treatment from Peaceville. Originally formed in 71, these two re-releases showcase the bands sound well; heavily Sabbath-inspired early doom. The slow riffage rings of Iommi, and carries the melodic songs forwards, under which slow, crushing drums and chunky bass constitute a forceful rhythm section. The vocals tend to rely on raw singing, very much of the era, and totally in fitting with the sound. All the instruments are well performed, but somewhat understated; with no showy performances the focus is always on the songs.
Relentless was originally release on the bands own record label as their eponymous debut. Inspiration from the rock bands of the time is still audible in the sound, but classic doom is definitely the order of the day here. Heavy riffs, a power chord-driven rhythm section and occasional solos, along varied songs keeps this all interesting, despite how dated the music sounds. Raw production with a clear mix suits the sound to a tee. This is a must for all fans of classic doom - it doesnt get much more vintage than this! Cool stuff.
Day Of Reckoning sees the band continue in a similar direction to its predecessor. A more polished (but still rather raw) sound heralds increasingly melodic guitars, while cleaner singing takes the forefront, in a more accessible release. Slightly more complex songs and a greater number of guitar solos are about the only other developments apparent from the debut. Another seminal doom album, this too is essential for fans of the genre.
Relentless 7.5/10
Day Of Reckoning 8/10
Official Peaceville website
Official Pentagram website
