US proto-metal, 70’s rock and pure metal band Spellbook have their second release on offer. Their debut came out during the pandemic and was well received by yours truly. However, with a second album in the mix, the defining quality displayed on their debut is continued through this second release, more horror based but rooted in reality.
The main character is hooks and melody. If you take Trouble, Mid-Seventies Sabbath, and a load of stoner groove bands, you get Spellbook. However, they are not one dimensional, as tracks like ‘Her Spectral Armies’ and ‘Night of the Doppelganger’ both display. There is lots of light and shade in tempo and volume; you are taken on a journey. The happy feel of ‘Goddess’ and the infectious nature of the chorus has you singing from first listen. The Chug/classic groove from the guitar will keep you head bobbing whether you are dressed in plaid shirts or denim and leather. There is a huge appeal possible.
The total stand out tune for me is ‘The Witch of Riley Creek’ (based on the story of the first witch trial in Pennsylvania – a long time prior to the Salem Witch Trials apparently). The bass and groove, especially when the chorus kick in is total power. This had me displaying the pleasantries to all those in a traffic jam I was in on the motorway recently, and yes, air drumming was mandatory.
Overall, this is a continuation of the great quality gleamed from the debut, there’s a lot of focus and a lot of inspiration recorded. This is an extremely enjoyable release.
(8.5/10 Paul Maddison)
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