Gold: A Review of Scour’s Latest Black Metal Masterpiece
“Gold” is an apt title for Scour’s latest release under Nuclear Blast Records. This album radiates brilliance, establishing itself as a formidable black metal masterpiece crafted by an American supergroup. With Phil Anselmo at the helm, this LP is already shaping up to be a leading contender for the best record of the year across all extreme metal genres.
Musical Excellence: The Sound of “Gold”
Captivating Singles: “Blades” and More
The second single, “Blades,” is a testament to the band’s ability to channel the essence of Western Norway’s black metal scene. The synergy between the dueling tremolo guitars played by Mark Kloeppel from Misery Index and Derek Engemann of Philip H. Anselmo and the Illegals creates a chilling yet familiar soundscape. Fans of the iconic Scandinavian style will find solace in the alternate picking that permeates tracks like “Coin” and “Evil,” which features an impressive layered wall of sound from the guitars.
A Fusion of Genres
While Scour predominantly embraces black metal, “Gold” also introduces intriguing elements of death metal and grindcore. This fusion is particularly evident in the track “Infusorium,” where the band honors their black metal roots while pushing the boundaries into a more contemporary sound.
Lyricism and Nostalgia
Tracks like “Invoke” serve as a nostalgic nod to 90s-inspired black metal, featuring tongue-in-cheek lyrics that evoke a sense of humor amidst the darkness: “Invoke the Master’s goat. All hail Satan! Be at one with hell. Give the body to Satan!” This playful approach adds depth to the album, showcasing Scour’s ability to balance intensity with levity.
Rhythm and Structure: The Jarvis Brothers
The formidable rhythm section consists of brothers John Jarvis and Adam Jarvis, known for their work with Agoraphobic Nosebleed and Misery Index, respectively. Their collaboration results in a brutally aggressive sound that complements the album’s overall aesthetic. Additionally, Gary Holt from Slayer and Exodus lends his talent to a guest solo, further enhancing the album’s appeal.
Production Quality
Recorded in 2023 and 2024, “Gold” benefits from a stellar mix crafted by Dennis Israel, while mastering was performed by the renowned Jens Bogren in Sweden. The album maintains a powerful auditory experience without resorting to the lo-fi production that many black metal bands have adopted. This choice allows the intricacies of the music to shine through, making it a must-have for fans.
Conclusion
Overall, Scour’s “Gold” is an essential addition to any extreme metal fan’s collection. With its expertly crafted sound, a blend of genres, and captivating lyrics, it stands as a testament to the band’s prowess and innovation within the black metal scene. This album is not merely a release; it is an experience that demands attention and respect.
FAQs
What genre does Scour’s “Gold” belong to?
“Gold” primarily falls under the black metal genre, with influences from death metal and grindcore.
Who are the members of Scour?
Scour features Phil Anselmo, Mark Kloeppel, Derek Engemann, John Jarvis, and Adam Jarvis.
When was “Gold” released?
The album was recorded in 2023 and 2024, with its release date aligned with the promotional singles.
Who produced and mastered the album?
The album was mixed by Dennis Israel and mastered by Jens Bogren in Sweden.
What makes “Gold” stand out in the extreme metal scene?
The combination of powerful musicianship, a unique blend of genres, and engaging lyrics makes “Gold” a standout record in the extreme metal landscape.
