When you think of heavy guitar riffs, what band comes to mind?? Is it Black Sabbath?? Is it Slayer?? Perhaps even a band like Gojira?? Now you’d be correct and yes I do think of those bands too but I also think of the band Bolt Thrower and they are 67/100 for Song Pick Of The Week, we’re taking a look at the song “Ritual” off of The IV Crusade. Let’s take a look….
If you read my review of this band, then you’ll know that they were recommended by someone at Amoeba and what a great recommendation it was. I mean seriously talk about a band with such heavy, crushing guitar riffs and they kept that going throughout their six album run!! Bolt Thrower were part of that group of death metal bands that were under the Earache label along with bands like Morbid Angel, Napalm Death, Carcass, Entombed, and so many others. This was honestly a really hard one to choose because there’s just so many great songs. I chose “Ritual” because it’s one of those that catches your ear with its badass riffs and drum work. The song itself is about the disillusionment that comes with aging and the realization that many of the promises and expectations made in youth are ultimately unfulfilled. It also paints a picture of life as a cyclical ritual with societal norms and expectations dictating our actions and choices. The holy rites references can also be seen as a commentary on how we adhere to certain beliefs and traditions without truly understanding or questioning them. Lastly, it also makes one question their morality and existence as well as the repetitive nature of life and accepting one’s fate. It really is too bad that this band is no longer around however, we have six great albums from them. If you haven’t listened to this band in awhile, give their albums another spin and if you’re looking for something new and heavy the definitely check them out!!
Song Stats:
Total Plays: 15
Premiered: January 15, 1992 Simplon, Groningen Netherlands
Last Time Played: April 7, 2012 at Boltfest 2012
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