THE OATH - The Oath
April 14, 2014, 10 years ago
(Rise Above Records)
Swedish guitarist Linnea Olsson and German vocalist Johanna Sadonis, collectively known as THE OATH, breathe new, yet pleasingly familiar life into the genre of doom metal. Undoubtedly, a pair of good looking blondes decked out in black leather will catch the eye of many a male headbanger; thankfully their sex appeal is as strong as their musical talent. These bombshells channel the evil undertones of BLACK SABBATH, mixed with the psychedelic shades of JEFFERSON AIRPLANE. Yet the surprisingly endearing, albeit rough recording – completed in only ten days – conjures up completely justifiable punk comparisons. Each of the nine tracks combines sinister vibes with atmospheric elements, all the while rejoicing about Satan, demons, and death. The key is that it never comes off as childish or dated; in fact it’s a trippy, retrospective homage to occult-inspired music from decades gone by. Overflowing with conviction and integrity, The Oath revels in sensual darkness.
