Swedish vocals
International relevance: ***
The first and most classic of
Midsommar's two albums (the second one reviewed here). With plenty of
energetic guitar playing it's heavier than their second – or should
I say potentially heavier. The production is a remnant from
the 60's, with extreme channel separation with the core band in one
channel, overdubs in the other and the vocals too loud in the middle,
everything too trebly and with almost no bass – a sound that
bereaves ”Belsebub är lös” a lot of the impact it would have
had if better produced. I'm not sure if it's technician Bo Winbergs
fault, but it really doesn't seem like a brilliant idea having early
60's instro band Spotnicks' guitarist at the helm of a 70's heavy
rock album.
It might be because of the inferior
production I haven't yet quite warmed to this album. Unlike most I
still prefer Midsommar's rather different eponymous follow-up, but
”Belsebub är lös” have its moments for sure. The title track
provides a strong kick-off to the album, folk inspired track
”Midsommar” moves along in a softly swinging 6/8 rhythm with a
flute to remind you of Jethro Tull, and album closer ”Till morsan”
is a pretty effective heavy number despite unashamedly nicking more
than what's appropriate from James Gang's 1970 hit ”Funk #49”.
I'm not one usually calling out for
remixed reissues, but ”Belsebub är lös” is in desperate need
for one. That would likely make it a more satisfying album than it is
in its original/current shape. And while at it, maybe they should fix the disastrous album cover too...
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