Gol - Appaller (2011)

   Gol debuted as a black metal band who were determined to follow the roots of the genre with all of it's well known compromise-less features. Their music reflects the same vile, dark and unfriendly impression that once made black metal extraordinary - and which became rare to find on similar level (or in less unfortunate case at any level) few decades later.
   Even though overwhelming intensity is the album's most noteable feature, slow downs and switches to middle speed are common, that are effecting advantageous by creating contrast. The band preferred basic catchy themes that are complying to speed switches easily, and also resulting an obscure atmosphere. This atmospheric sound doesn't have such predominant importance like at classic Norwegian bands though, so "Appaller" sounds somehow ancient, and reminds more to old Bathory. This kind of small difference might have higher importance than how it seems, because it's also the reason that makes the music sound more aggressive. And also suspects some analogy with other Australian extreme bands, who are famous about trying to approach things a bit differently, and ending up with something raw and heavier than usual. "Appaller" might be enjoyable for those who prefer the ancient sound of black metal.