ALBUM REVIEW: Bafomet – F.O.A.D.I.F.

Last year Japanese Blackened Thrash Metal militia BAFOMET unleashed an old school masterpiece via Nuclear War Now Productions, Iron Fist Productions, Destruktion Records and Black Konflik Records.

An unsettling introduction begins our journey into the depths of hell, we are due true demonic mayhem signified by the Bathory-worshipping cover art. Cymbal crashes kick us into an onslaught of filthy Heavy Metal hellfire with d-beat fury and menacing riffs causing total mayhem, old school style. Blackened vocals ravenously spew satanic verses across the hammering instruments and the clear-cut, razor-sharp assault is unleashed from the onset. The blasting attack on all things holy is so damn contagious with headbanging riffs aplenty and a truly savage execution which is met with raw, but perfectly audible production values to give that cult appeal. The ability to string traditional whiplash grooves and more extreme violence together is absolutely fantastic and gives the adrenaline overload tracks plenty to be excited about for first time listeners and old fans alike. This record is clearly dedicated to the mayhem and destruction mapped out by the 80s pioneers, Bafomet keep the flame burning true and bright.

Although ridiculously aggressive and harsh, there is a sense of melody in the songs which gives them a bit more traditional Heavy Metal appeal while keeping the Black-Thrash mania on full throttle. Indeed, occasional bouts of clean vocals may surprise some but the reminiscence to Japanese cult bands like Gorgon or Genocide adds even more strength to the music for me. These are real warriors for the majesties of real music and their authentically skilled playing, passionate execution and unpolished production all feels genuine and pure. This blend of classic convictions and truly epic music has me 100% behind Bafomet as a fan.

Venom-maniacs and Sarcofago-blasting bangers can all revel in the joyful news bands like Bafomet keep the evil Heavy Metal sound of old alive and well. This record calls back so many adored records for me but in a way that feels like the bands own work. This blend of fanatic passion and wonderful music is laid out marvellously and makes “F.O.A.D.I.F.” one of those albums you want to play again and again. A soundtrack to sadistic sorcery and full-moon ferocity! There are plenty of tracks with anthemic moments to bang fists to while the overall speed is still furiously battering away in most songs. “Burning High” is a perfect example of this, in contrast to the savagery of “Satánico Heavy Metal” or “Mayhemic Blackfire” which are more typical of Black-Thrash. The diversity shown on this album is really gripping and the mystical traditional charm is still as enchanting as ever. It is time for “戦争儀式” to close the album out with, as the title suggests, a “War Ritual”, ending with a bang, ready for you to play it all over again…

This is real Heavy Metal extremity. Taking the ways of old and the virtues of Black and Thrash Metal in their stride, Bafomet unleash chaotic fire in less than 30 minutes of truly killer material. Old school bangers and maniacs will adore this, and if you do not; F.O.A.D.I.F.