Modrigue
Mesmerizing metal
Initially recorded in 1983 and finally released two years later, "The Innocent, the Forsaken, the Guilty" is the first EP by THE MEZMERIST. The music is typical 80's heavy/doom metal, however with a slight mystical ambiance, a kind of crossing between BLACK SABBATH, MERCYFUL FATE and HAWKWIND. Tommy Mezmercardo's childish falsetto voice contributes to this particular atmosphere, although his tone may not please everyone.
This EP features the participation of BLACK SABBATH's drummer Bill Ward.
"The Forsaken" is just an ambient spoken introduction, followed by the haunting "Dead Ones Cry No More". Alternating fast and slower passages with spacey guitar soli, this gloomy song sets the tone for the rest of the record. Very nice. "Arabian Nights" is also powerful and catchy, the most original track of the disc. "Victim Of Environmental Change" is a little more traditional heavy metal song, but remains nonetheless quite good.
Tommy Mezmercardo's singing may disconcert some people, but is part of the overall ambiance. This mystical metal approach is interesting and makes you wish THE MEZMERIST has recorded more albums to let him more develop his musical identity. Original, "The Innocent, the Forsaken, the Guilty" should please 80's heavy/doom metal or even HAWKWIND fans!