Goat - World Music

A few weeks ago, I read an article about Gangnam Style in which the writer called it 'bizarre but brilliant'. Of course, to these eyes, they were met with both confusion and amusement, but also not too surprised given that is expected to come from such mainstream media who would have absolutely no idea what quality music is (especially bizarre kind). It made me then wonder what is the most bizarre but brilliant thing I have heard this year. That title may go to Goat's 'World Music'. What a bizarre album it is.

This is one ritual full of tribal drumming, psychedelic keys and riffs with plenty of buzz and disjointedness, lead by the vocals that appear like a wicked lady leading in chant and a circle of tripped out people in a ceremonial dance around a camp fire in the middle of the woods at night. Might say too that it sounds like it came from somewhere 40 to 50 years ago, not the present day.

If in some way, you become compelled by this, you might shake around around to hypnotic riffs and sounds of 'Golden Dawn', beat your hands in rhythm to 'Goathead', bounce about to clean riffs of 'Let It Bleed' or dream of yourself slowly running on the spot in pitch black to the repetitive, quick plucking and commanding voice of 'Run To Your Mama'. If that is not enough, then 'Goatlord' comes off as some dreamy and glorious hymn.

I like how the bass lines and drums play the repetitive part and the guitars and keys go all whacky and all over the place on the top. It is like your mind may be stuck, but your eyes are looking to all different directions. A trip out for sure. I also like how the vocals have this hint of rawness to them and when words/notes are held, it almost feels like the words are being screamed out, that along with the little moments of laughter come off a little menacing. There is some real passion behind these vocals. Heck, a ritualistic fire sizzles with these guys. Great stuff.

Have a look at their live and promo photos. You know you would be in for one hell of an experience if you saw them live. 'World Music' is an experience in itself and the more I experience this, the more it is becoming one of my favourite albums this year. Their tricks worked. Sweden has again produced another gem and a real example of what bizarre and brilliant is...

Ikil