(c) Mika Paananen
Originally found themselves Green King as a sideshow for stoner heavyness. Instead, the sound of the four Finns gradually developed in the direction of (proto)-metallic, classic sounds with a 70s and 80s touch. Corresponding circumstances delayed the release of their music, which had already been recorded in two studios (including a sauna cabin) in 2020. „Hidden Beyond Time“ is her muscular, entertaining debut album.
The crisp “Godkiller” shows that the journey is on. Yes, the original Stoner intentions remain recognizable in the leitmotif, but clearly older sounds are knocking all around, which definitely squint in the direction of NWOBHM. Eliel Salomaa’s powerful vocals, on the other hand, would rather lean towards the desert or even sludge, and this quickly results in an entertaining game of contrasts, fart-dry and yet somehow palatable. This is also one of those seemingly innumerable contradictions that skillfully resolve in pleasure. The little slowdown before the guitar solo even scores with some Doom rot.
Another overly long track closes the album. “Lifetakers” easily breaks the eight-minute mark and calls up all the possibilities. Desert sprints, grumpy malice and classical-hymnic parts come together for a monstrous and musty epic that playfully reaches new, old spheres. But the notorious spice of brevity can also do something, see and hear “Tervakiituri”. The punchy, ponderous powerhouse even hints at proto-thrash at times, loses itself in its long middle section and finally takes off completely with a manic solo.
After 34 minutes the spook is over once more (much too quickly). Of course, the original Stoner plans remain clearly recognizable, serving as one of many ingredients in this wholesome Metal mush whose proto-tinge is particularly entertaining. “Hidden Beyond Time” likes to remind you of Haunt, who gained a corresponding audience with a similar vintage approach. Maybe there won’t be a revolution, but the result puts you in a good mood from the first to the last minute and literally calls for extensive live activities.
Rating: 8/10
Available from: 16.12.2022
Available from: The Sign Records (Bertus)
Facebook: www.facebook.com/greenkingband
Category: Magazin, Reviews
