Band : The Fertility Cult
Album Title : Eschatalogy
Label : Own release
Distributor : /
Release Date : 2010
Review : CD

Hail, Finland! So many great unique bands (Circle, Rev Bizarre, Viima, Hooded Menace) have come from Finland, why not throw another onto the ever-growing pile? It never ceases to amaze me how excellent the Finnish metal scene has become over the years.

The Fertility Cult haven't been around long, and this is their first release. One of the main points that distinguish The Fertility Cult is the inclusion of a real sax player.  There was a time when the saxophone were the enemy of metal. That is clearly not the case today (for ex : Shining, Ihsahn, Hypnos69) however there is till some hesitation in some circles to fully embrace the sound of the sax. Eschatology begins with “Cosmic Kaishakunin”. At 7 min it gives a good glimpse of the 70’s psych rock and doom sound the band will explore throughout the record, and leaves the listener wanting more. “Into the sacred groove” is another great track, based mostly on a sacred “Dragonaut”-ish groove. The keys play a Purple pattern and saxophone solos float to the surface. The sax, guitars and the catchy rhythms instantly grabbed me, but it took me a few listens to really appreciate the monotone vocals These are longer than average songs, giving the band lots of time to stretch their instrumental wings. The whole album is pleasing, with only brief segments not being to my taste, but there is always a surprising twist waiting around the corner.

Overall, I would say that this is a very successful first album, which could have a certain appeal, and is well worth a try if you like the mix of doom and 70s psych rock with sax. Hopefully The Fertility Cult will be able to find an audience as I, for one, am looking forward in hearing more of their music.

87/100

Cosmicmasseur.