A potential turning point
Gost has always been a somewhat captivating presence within the realm of heavy music. Billed early on as an electronic metal group, the band seemed to be blending elements of cutting production with the tried and true rhythms and tones of metal. Now, as to whether or not the band themselves agrees with that description, no one could say, but their latest album, Rites of Love and Reverence, certainly seems to indicate that they’re not interested in pursuing that title. This record sees them move away from the more bombastic, overwhelming, pulverizing style of electronic that they have become known for and push towards a more classic interpretation of industrial electronics.
Of course, the album still has its fair share of intensity. The second track, “Bound by the Horror” (which is led into by “Bell, Book and Candle”), heaves its colossal weight about like a titan. It is only held in orbit by a subdued vocal performance that enables listeners to find a handhold in the tumult. Unfortunately, this is more or less the beginning and end of the intensity. There are certain moments in other tracks where the volume knob gets cranked up, but in general, the album is much more subdued than their previous efforts.
As much as the low intensity is a letdown, it isn’t just a bummer. Tracks like “Burning Thyme,” “Blessed Be” and “Coven” all benefit from the lower volume. It allows the band to play with a wider range of dynamics than they would be allowed if the album were simply trying to be a hulking monstrosity. It lends the whole project a tremendously spooky atmosphere. It’s rather reminiscent of their phonetic cousin Ghost, who relies on a more atmosphere-driven approach to metal music to widen their appeal.
Ultimately, the album feels like it needs to be a bit more balanced between intensity and calm. There are moments when that balance feels perfectly struck; “Burning Thyme,” “Coven” and “Bound by the Horror” all manage to pull it off rather well, but not enough of the other tracks put the two elements in the blender enough. That said, the sound profile that Gost plays with on this record is perhaps the most interesting they’ve used to date.
While Rites of Love and Reverence isn’t perfect, it has the potential to serve as a meaningful tonal shift for Gost. The direction they’ve chosen to go on this record is compelling and promising. Hopefully, the future of this band is even brighter than the picture they’ve painted so far. Though maybe they’d prefer the darkness given their sound.
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