This freedom is encompassed in the acoustic intro to “Embodiment Of This Bitter Chaos.” Paired with guitarist Sammy Duet’s soaring electric harmonies, the classical-leaning beginning is done with a degree of flair missing from the rest of the album. While Goatwhore gets back into the realm of brutality soon after, this minute of brevity stands out in contrast to the rest of the record.
It’s not just one song that gets this kind of treatment. The entire first half of the album has varied tempos, including the catchy stomper “Parasitic Scriptures of the Sacred Word” and the crushing heaviness of “In Deathless Tradition.” Those privy to the band’s other four albums will notice that there is a maturity to their songwriting, making the held-back pace of these songs as worthwhile as the faster material that dominates much of the second half.
The trademarks from the past continue to define Goatwhore, including the whammy-heavy guitar solos and dual vocals of Duet and L. Ben Falgoust II. To the untrained ear, the vocals seem like a whole bunch of yelling and grunting, but having two vocalists trading off verses and choruses has worked well for the band. It can be hard to differentiate between them, considering how close in tone their harsh vocals are. Over time, the finer differences become clear, and this interplay acts as another valuable commodity in the album’s longevity.
The thrashy “An End To Nothing” is the “Apocalyptic Havoc” of this record, except that it’s nestled near the end of the record. It’s a shock to the core that could have been a stirring opener, but the band didn’t want to take that predictable route; more credit to them for making that decision. It’s also wise not to see them fall prey to the slow-moving closer that bogged down Carving Out The Eyes Of God. “My Name Is Frightful Among The Believers” stands parallel to the other tracks in its ruthless aggression and devil-may-care attitude.
Blood For The Master is another great album from Goatwhore that easily matches up to the last one. At this point in their career, a common sound has been woven that fans expect to hear. There may be other bands who tout this black/death style, but very few can make it both catchy and devastating. Goatwhore have been getting better as the years wear on, and this album established them as a metal band not to be ignored.
(released February 14, 2012 on Metal Blade Records)
