An old band mate of mine had an old Marshall one-piece combo (can't remember the model), 50w with two 12 inch speakers. When cranked to ten, it produced an awesome sound, like it was about go full distortion, but not quite. I was pleasantly surprised when that sound came from YEAR OF THE GOAT's latest release."Novis Orbis Terrarum Ordinis" That wasn't the only sound emanating from my system I was enjoying.

One thing they seemed to master was the use of three guitars to fill every empty sonic space in the complex structures they were creating, harmonizing in ways that sent tingles down my spine. "Subortus" has an opening that shows an aptitude for mixing cords in ways that are highly original.

Rather than go through song by song (by the way, I couldn't find a boring one in the bunch) let's look at the album as a whole. It is a shining example of how to show of highly talented musicians without the shredding, self-indulgent pap that we've become numb to. No one person stands alone, they work together as a team and if one would try and stand out on his own, the whole project wouldn't work. Even Pope's Mellotron is essential in propping up the base of the songs.

Every song was interesting, never leaving me wanting it to get to the next part faster. The trio of Thomas Sabbathi, Jonas Mattsson, and Linus Lundgren were able to produce such a pure guitar sound, with a little reverb and overdrive, but still were so heavy. Linus Lundgren laid done such a great drum track, with near perfection in adding fills and keeping odd time signatures accessible. Tying it all together is Joona Hassinen growling basslines, giving the b and that extra punch to make this a must have CD in your collection.

The vocals are amazing, with multiple harmonies highlighting Thomas Sabbathi's unique, and let's be truthful, high voice but it is so perfect for the music they create, like Geddy's voice for RUSH. Would it work anywhere else I don't know but it sure works here.

Give it a listen. It's haunting purity and bold nakedness will win you over, like it did with me.Production  10