TERRIBLE OLD MAN are based in Germany and are inspired by the original poems of H.P. Lovecraft. The bands lyrics are taken from H.P. Lovecraft poems and stories. Famous for horror themes the subject matter is ideal for this concept-style release called "Fungi From Yuggoth". The band released a highly respected debut "Cosmic Poems".

All the songs on second album "Fungi from Yuggoth", are from the poem sequence of the same name. The first ten sonnets were used for this album. Musically, the sound is modern Heavy Metal with clean vocals in a progressive style. A mix between traditional sounds of IRON MAIDEN and BLACK SABBATH with a concept-style resulting in a lighter version of MASTODON. However, the result is very original and each song is varied and memorable. I haven't previously read Lovecraft's works but the content lends itself perfectly for this album and the songs are really well balanced.

Opening track "The Book" kicks in with a killer riff and doomy guitars starting in a MASTODON style. Rather than carry on in a heavier manner, the track opens out nicely and is more like a heavy version of DREAM THEATER. "The Pursuit" really does riff along fast and edgy making you feel that you are being pursued. There is a great bass and guitar rhythm on here and the first really killer guitar solo. "Homecoming" starts with gentle guitar and superb vocals from Angstrom. The lyrics really work well courtesy of Mr Lovecraft and the track is a real standout with its dramatic story and reeling guitars toward the end. Another stand out is "The Courtyard", which starts with a staccato riff and build into a heavy chugging number. The vocals are heavier on this track and this provides a good heavy moment to add light and shade to the collection.

"Zaman's Hill" provides real musicianship in a more progressive style. This one is epic in its delivery with choral vocals and moody sections. There is a piano acompliment and excellent guitars throughout. "The Port" is conceptual too and creates a dramatic story picture along with the music. The playing on this album is top draw. It got me thinking that the standard is up there with the MASTODONS or even DREAM THEATERS of the Prog Metal world. This is demonstrated in "The Lamp", perhaps my favourite track on the album. This has great riffing and a technical rhythm section. There are heavy but melodic over-laid guitars. The tempo is the fastest on the album but with some nice breakdowns. The album finishes with "The Pigeon Flyers" with a banjo guitar throughout and great lyric story telling.

TERRIBLE OLD MAN really delivers on this record. The concept works well and there are a lot of variation between the songs to keep the listener interested form start to finish. This means the album is very memorable and a standout for me in the Prog Metal field. I enjoyed this more than the latest MASTODON album which is a similar comparator. I am a MASTODON fan so that is a compliment to "Fungi From Yuggoth".