Though issued by Peaceville in 1993, this album originally was released by "Pentagram Records" (i.e. independently) back in 1985. Pentagram were a DC-based doom band which had actually existed since the late 70s (and even earlier, to hear the story from the band's vocalist/founder Bobby "Plugie" Liebling), and though they always called themselves influenced by stoner-rock band Blue Cheer, their sound actually landed VERY close to Black Sabbath - Thick slabs of power-chord sludge. Plugie's vocals were rather unique - not very forceful (he never really 'lets loose'), but he concentrates on weaving a good vocal melody into the songs - sort of like other 'sloth-doom' bands like, say, St. Vitus or the Obsessed. The rest of the band is also similarly competent: guitarist Victor Griffin just lays down the riffs and rarely indulges in solos, but when he does they're quite slow and melodic rather than 'noodly', and they fit well. Bassist Martin Swaney also basically sticks with the groove of the songs, throwing in the occasional well-placed fill. And finally, drummer Joe Hasselvander (who went on to play with Raven) sticks to the song's groove, choosing his fills well. The playing is understated, but in a good way, because each member simply plays to the song rather than using the songs to show off. It's rather hard to pick out a standout track, because the album is quite good overall, but the first track "Death Row" has some of everything that made Pentagram such a great band.

The music probably sounds dated to those used to the extremities of modern metal, but for fans of doom metal, Black Sabbath, or just that old 'vintage' crunch, Pentagram's first album is one album to check out.

© 1999 lord vic