Not long after the Celtic Frost break-up with their latest “Monotheist”, the most charismatic of the musicians there, Tom Gabriel Fischer (or just Warrior) performs a dynamic come back with Triptychon. This created mixed emotions because many where not convinced by the re-make of Celtic Frost while others responded enthusiastically, in expectance of another “Into The Pandemonium”. Of course, as it always is, the truth is somewhere in between and maybe the next lines will help you make up your mind.

Well, it is true, the Warrior returns with a new band and a new album with a cover branding a signature by HR Giger. This might be trivial to people that are not aware of things, as “Into The Pandemonium” was originally released with a blasphemus cover by Giger which shook the ethics back in the mid 80s. So having a new Giger work at hand, we welcome that darkness that flows out of the speakers in the form of a slow and low-tuned riff, bowing before the beast. No fuss, the album starts with “Goetia”, an eleven minute song. After the dark intro, the song heavies even more as the distorted vocals of the Warrior speak the unspeakable causing tremors of emotion. Maybe the heavy distortion spoil what the old fans would have wanted, but to me they sound pretty agreeable since they do not tend to copy the old Celtic Frost days. If I could briefly describe this album, I would mention that this is an epitome of Warrior with the HellHammer and the early Celtic Frost blended with the latest “Monotheist” (leaving aside “Gold Lake” and “Vanity/Nemesis” who took another path)

Balancing between Black Metal and Doom “Eparistera Daimones” gives mutual priority to the genres, honoring Gabriel’s prior endeavours. For example, “A Thousand Lies” stands out for it fast pace that flirts with blast beat and inevitably signs Hellhammer in black blood among the granite sounds of the album. Equally strong “Myopic Empire” with black metal stepping back while it dissolves into doom darkness, a song that will make several wannabe Doom bands to reconsider their paths. The solos, in conjunction with the heavier than heavy bass line, give lessons for the genre. I should also note the female vocals that change the scenery led by piano melodies that create an unbelievable outcome.

The album concludes as it started with a 20 minute “The Prolonging” leaving the listener to wander in landscapes out of novels by Lovecraft and August Derleth, opening the gates to the Great Old Ones and welcoming Cthulhu on Earth.

I think it is unnecessary to say that I liked this album and that I strongly recommend it to all of those that like Warrior’s works and that really get it with the dark and unholy sonic landscapes that he creates with his new band.

“Only Death Is Real”

Tom Gabriel Warrior