BRUTALISM

Bretus originally took shape back in 2000 by guitarist Ghenes as a homage to the greats in the Doom Metal scene starting with Black Sabbath to the modern era of bands like Cathedral, Trouble, Saint Vitus but there was also a deep love for horror movies especially the soundtracks so the concept of Bretus was born. Along with another guitarist Neurot in 2008, they recorded some tracks and Bretus started to make a name for themselves in the Doom underground. With vocalist Marko and drummer Sest they developed a sound that while not exactly original, it has a timeless, classic quality that is instantly accessible. After a long, almost painful wait, a 5 track CD is now available. The CD gets on its way with a horror movie spoken word sample in Italian, the following riff that is unleashed in monumental in its delivery, classic Doom in every sense possible and sounding like a cross between Black Sabbath, Saint Vitus and early Cathedral. This track called "Sitting On The Grave" has two killer riffs of the highest quality, the opening main riff that sounds familiar yet original and another riff that comes in 2/3 of the way into the song. Another monster, chunky riff that pushes the song up to a dramatic climax. At that with some fine wailing solo work and you get the complete package. Next is "From The South" and its also based around some solid riffing and some great melody lines and solo work. Plenty of crunch and crashing drums provide the balls of the track along with some unforgettable vocal phrasing. Devastatingly heavy, catchy and a total Stoner Doom burner, this is the real deal. There is no weak point in the band and they sound like a band that should be huge within the Doom scene, you get the feeling you are listening to a band that you have been hooked onto forever even though this is pretty new stuff. The only band i can think of they fits into the same mindset is "Orchid", you just get instantly hooked by the tunes and grooves. Track three is "Dark Cloaks Arrive" which is a classy instrumental interlude in the tradition of other timeless instrumentals from the 70's like Black Sabbath's "Laguna Sunrise" etc. A gentle strumming acoustic guitar and melodic, folksy note runs produce a floaty, cosmic vibe that is soothing to the ear and a nice break between the heavy duty Doom tunes."In Onirica" is up next and it has a killer, twisting riff that gyrates around the solid rhythm section of the band. Its another riff line that has been done before but its done here with so much conviction, it doesn't sound recycled at all. Another interesting solo is featured before the tune gets shifted down a gear creating a swirling vortex of a groove. "The Only Truth" is the final track and its  more of a "Heaven And Hell Sabbath era" riff line that runs through this track. The vocals echo that of classic Metal front-men but without sounding like anyone else, the track has a infectious tempo change about halfway in. At this point, its pure old school headbanging Metal complete with another wailing solo. Yet another tempo change and riff pattern before you are treated to yet another great solo creating different and unique sound textures. The ending riff is total Doom rock greatness that is unbelievably catchy and when the track comes to its grinding halt, you are left with the feeling you have just heard something that is a instant classic. Like bands like Orchid, Witchcraft and the like, Bretus make no apologies for their worshiping of the Doom / Stoner greats of the past and the present, in fact they embrace that sound and do it some great justice. The only sad fact is that the EP is so short, a full length album is something that needs to be made and soon. The world needs more bands like Bretus as they are the true essence of Doom Metal. All the ingredients of what is needed are all here, not only for a Stoner Doom release but also just a straight ahead, no bull Heavy Metal CD. Great riffs, a rock solid rhythm section, powerful vocals and great production. I get the feeling this is only the beginning of a band that in the next couple of years will become a big influence in the Doom Metal underground and beyond. Essential!