Review YEAR OF THE GOAT “Trivia Goddess”

Year of the Goat, based in Norrköping, are back with a new album. “Trivia Goddess” is the title of their fourth album, following the 2019 release of “Novis Orbis Terrarum Ordinis.” Thomas Eriksson and his bandmates have created another rocking milestone, this time with ten mystic songs.

Their sound is rooted in 60s and 70s rock music. References to this era are present throughout, and occult influences provide their music with a special mood.

“The Power of Eve” marks the beginning of an extravagant musical journey. It is a throbbing song with a dark undertone that sounds rather harmonic at first. The melodies and great production provide an exceptional listening experience that supports the band’s versatile approach to music.

The title track, “Trivia Goddess,” is a highlight. It is equipped with a roaring riff and a classic rock groove. In a way, it reminds me of Ghost on their first album, before they adjusted their compass towards a more commercial route.

The album also includes an atmospheric milestone song, “Mét Agwe,” placed in the middle. With eight minutes, we listen to a song with various facets, beginning with a clamer verse that leads to a chorus of fierce and powerful music. Year of the Goat is steering the ship in a good direction, as evidenced by the rather catchy “Alucarda.” This swinging rock song is a sonic ray of light in a sea of darkness, which returns with “The King of Damnation.” The mighty riff reminds me of Avatarium, and in nearly seven minutes, the band shows its multifaceted approach to music. Darkness rarely sounds so lighthearted as it does in “The King of Damnation.”

Another well-crafted song is “Crescent Moon,” which lives by its structure and Eriksson’s vocals. It’s almost impossible not to be fascinated by this song’s melodies, which showcase great musicianship.

“The Witch of the Woods” has a sinister vibe, which contrasts with the captivating hooks. This underlying level of evil resonates in each of the ten songs, creating brilliant tension.

“Trivia Goddess” is a rich, emotional album. With a foundation in ’60s and ’70s rock, the band adds their own musical vision to the mix, making “Trivia Goddess” a superb album that should be on the radar of anyone who appreciates early Ghost.