CoC : Grimfist - Ghouls of Grandeur : Review

Grimfist - _Ghouls of Grandeur_
(Candlelight, 2003)
by: Jackie Smit (8.5 out of 10)

While much has been made of ex-Immortal sticksman Horg's involvement with the Norwegian wrecking ball known as Grimfist, those expecting an onslaught of frostbitten black metal are bound for disappointment. Nay, straightforward and brutal METAL is the name of Grimfist's game -- and a fastidiously played one it is. You see, while Phil Anselmo flaps his gums about his Superjoint Ritual being the most dangerous band in the world, and the mainstream salivates over the rebirth of metal in the so-called New Wave of American Heavy Metal, Grimfist have quietly created an album that recalls the menace and genuine ferocity of the old school. Add into the mix some furiously chugging grooves that are borderline hardcore and a tinge of black metal darkness, and you have a record that no fan of heavy music should be without. While it is true that Peter Tagtren's sterile production at times renders the material lifeless, this is by no means a serious or overly irksome fault. Songs like "Outlined in Black" and "No Compromise" are the products of tremendous talent and passion, ultimately making _Ghouls of Grandeur_ an outstanding debut from a band that clearly have the potential to contribute a helluva lot to this genre we all love so much.

Contact: http://www.grimfist.com

(article published 19/4/2004)