How in all that is heavy have I been able to miss what BARK in general stands for? And this album, "Rambler of Aeons" especially. Because on this one, their fourth full length album in six years, BARK is bringing up a storm. These Belgians from Antwerp have got a sound that is very much top of the bill. Musically you just have to picture the Death 'n' Roll that ENTOMBED is famous for, and mix it with the Thrash influences of SEPULTURA and the groovier sounds that SOULFLY is renowned for. Vocally you just have to admit that Ron Bruynseels sometimes sounds like Max Cavalera of the latter two bands, and often like the much too early deceased singer LG Petrov of the earlier band mentioned. There's even a kind of serenade on "Rambler Of Aeons", and it is aptly named "For A Legend".

I really miss those days of ENTOMBED, as they never disappointed me live. It makes just that little sadder, because I missed BARK playing live in Little Devil in Tilburg two weeks ago. They must have been a riot; with the music they make. And if that isn't enough, the quality of the songs is so bloody high I could get scared to look down. Simply put, every song is a hit, a bullseye, will knock you for six, however or whatever you want to name it. The music is perfectly played, aggressive and groovy at the same time when they play a bit slower, and dark and thrashy when they decide to go fast. On top of that are the perfectly timed and sounding lyrics from Ron Bruynseels.

As you have gathered by now, I am completely smitten by this steamroller of an album. "Rambler of Aeons" by BARK is taking the bull by the horns and making sure I do not wish to miss any second of whatever they play. I don't think I've listened to any album as many times as I have to "Rambler of Aeons" before reviewing it. And it still amazes me, inspires me, excites me and most of all puts a bloody great big smile on my ugly mug of a face. The fact that the production only enhances that experience should tell you that "Rambler of Aeons" is an almost perfect album. on closer inspection, just scrap the word almost. To me this is a case of pure perfection by BARK.