Root
Zjeveni
[Zeras]


Along with Master's Hammer and the mysterious Dai, Root are the oldest Czech BM band (Black/Death band Torr and their 'Institut Klinicke Smrti' maybe?). They have more in common with Dai though, not only musically, but also in terms of the subtle hilarity of the entire thing. Big Boss in his King Diamond get up is in many ways goofy, if not revolting. As the ugliest man in black metal, he is still one of the best vocalists though.

The way he pronounces his lyrics are really very impressive. If a Japanese sea monster were to descend upon earth and start an old school black metal band, then it would probably sound like Root. Big Boss has a very Japanamation styling to his voice - just watch the villainous monster in any one of those movies and you'll understand.

The music is brilliant too. Check out Blackosh's more modern black metal project Entrails if you want proof of the metal genius behind the band. Everything here is much more mid-paced and ancient sounding though, and broken up ONLY by the fantastic solos (just listen to the title track for example).

Satanic, ritualistic, and almost ambient in the way it moves, 'Zjeveni' is a fine example of a fantastic band influenced by Venom.

The vinyl version of this can still be found through some Czechia traders, amazingly enough. I was more then happy to trade my dub in for the real thing!


© 2000 brand