Pentagram

Gorgoroth - “Pentagram” 1994

Gorgoroth
“Pentagram”

Origin: Bergen, Norway

Genre: Black Metal

Label: Embassy Productions

I used to attribute a certain level of rawness to Gorgoroth’s ‘94 debut “Pentagram” LP, but that’s was during a time when I was becoming acclimated to the genre. Of course, as the years have gone by, I’ve discovered true raw black metal, have listened to much of the material that was released during that era and now understand just how in tune and in touch with what makes for the true Satanic, Norwegian black metal experience Gorgoroth were in comparison to the competition: Mayhem, Emperor, Satyricon and Darkthrone - all worthwhile contributors to the cause, but lacking in the intimidation department when stood up next to Infernus and his gaggle of Hellspawn. Open support of church burnings, theistic/gnostic Satanism, local Christian communities in an uproar and the whole Venom on steroids look to legitimize Gorgoroth as one of the quintessential black metal bands. And “Pentagram” made any and all second wave output feel like child’s play.

“Pentagram” struck fear into the hearts of teenaged parents in Norway. Gorgoroth were feared and admonished by churchgoers as the threat of Norse fury loomed steeple-lined horizons during a time when blood, fire, sacrifice and Devil worship defined the movement. 29 minutes spent in His presence, a sojourn within the warmth of His invigorating energy as tracks like “Ritual” and “Under the Pagan Monolith” soundtrack your stay. Images of great summonings being performed; the sweat and the heat of ritual’s fire under moonlight crested monuments of ancient times. Subtle thrash influences here and there as the ear candy to an otherwise brutal experience: “Katharinas Bortgang” and “Huldrelokk” (instrumental) - a patient sort of aggression as temped blasts drive forward maddening riffs that enthrall and even arouse - steady as blood flow and as unrelenting as torture. No finer example of true Norwegian black metal outside of Darkthrone’s Unholy Trinity in my opinion. Gorgoroth didn’t need to burn anything down or murder anyone. The intimidation factor and the message came by way of what was perceived by the herd as horrifying music and of course their imposing image.

Gorgoroth mastermind, Infernus? The greatest of the Norwegian troubadours. Despite his questionable associations with Gaahl and King ov Hell, which was like when Tommy Gun got mixed up with George Washington Duke, he’s always displayed the deepest understanding of what constitutes genuine BM as realized through classic records like “Pentagram”, “Antichrist”, “Under the Sign of Hell” and “Quantos Possunt ad Satanitatem Trahunt“ that have been so deservingly celebrated over the years. And whether it’s been Hat, Pest or Atterigner at the helm, the Gorgoroth experience has always been one dedicated to Satan.

I actually lose a bit of respect for black metal bands like Emperor when I listen to albums like “Pentagram”. How could you have gotten it so wrong? (Never been an Emperor fan). The right way is oft the simplest and for Gorgoroth, the creation of black metal has been a matter of hard work and allowing for the knuckleheads of the early days to vandalize while they simply let the commanding nature of the music speak… For the most part anyway. Not to dazzle with uber-dynamic passages and epic symphonic/keyboard elements, but to genuinely homage Satan with music that encapsulates everything that He represents: strength, power, passion, rage and war. The pre and post King & Gaahl eras were and are simpler days; the very best of what Gorgoroth has had to offer and that includes the openly accessible yet still fucking Gorgoroth, “Instictus Bestialis”. Meat and taters as opposed to some fancy sushi shit… Real deal Satanic black metal, truly Norwegian and quite frankly unforgettable is “Pentagram” - no finer example of true Satanic black metal.

Experience “Pentagram” by Gorgoroth right here as presented by Black Metal Promotion:

https://youtu.be/RWHiHQ72zTk?si=1x1MYmKQzQ1-o2Ua

~Jeger