ALBUM REVIEW: Trivia Goddess – Year of The Goat
No strangers to the ideas of a concept album. Swedish occult rockers YEAR OF THE GOAT have returned with Trivia Goddess. Six years since the previous album, Novis Orbis Terrarum Ordinis, which is the second of a three-part opus. The new album steps away from this framework, delivering an insight into the crimes against women and telling stories of religious vilification and witch hunts. Approaching these themes with tried and tested occult rock style and encompassing levels of 70s rock inspired grandeur.
For those who might be experiencing YEAR OF THE GOAT for the first time. Opening track, The Power of Eve does not capture the full essence, at least sonically, of what the band are about. While it is an excellently written track and encompasses the lyrical themes of the occult that they’re about. Musically it is lighter than not just tracks in their catalogue but also on the rest of Trivia Goddess. The Power of Eve contains elements that would be more at home on a mid-2000s indie record with chiming guitar chords and catchy vocal phrasing. It belies the intense 70s heavy rock vibes that lies at the core DNA of YEAR OF THE GOAT.
It could be argued that the title track kicks off the album properly. A powerful statement of heavy rock intent. Dual guitar harmonies lead the way with a relentless rhythm underpins proceedings. The band weave together riffs and melodies to create an intoxicating backdrop and direct the listener into a realm of occult mysticism while telling a captivating narrative. It’s tight, concise and catchy as hell. From this foundation, Trivia Goddess as an album goes from strength to strength. There are moments of fantasy interspersed creating an enchanting, meandering pathway to get lost in. Yet it’s the dyed in the wool 70s rock-esque tracks that really showcase YEAR OF THE GOAT in their glory.
The majestic Mét Agwe is an epic of guitar hero proportions. The slow build ascending to true melodic heights is utterly sublime. Well-crafted and perfectly executed it’s a stand out moment in an album that only grows more captivating with each listen. Similarly, Alucarda is a prime example of not just the stylistic influence of the band but also their exceptional musicianship. A marriage of BLUE ÖYSTER CULT and FLEETWOOD MAC yet wholly original in its delivery. It encapsulates the power and charm of what the band are trying to convey on Trivia Goddess.
Wrapping all of this up is a remarkably lush production. Every cowbell hit and tambourine shake are as clear as the soaring guitar lines or intricate vocal harmonies. Nothing is overpowered and everything has its place, Trivia Goddess is a truly expansive and immersive listening experience.
From what may at first listen be a slow start, Trivia Goddess opens up into a full occult rock tour de force. It ebbs and flows delivering melody and catchy hooks with undeniable aplomb. There is so much to enjoy and while the band tackle some important subject matter in their lyrics, one gets the sense that they relished writing and recording these tracks. There’s a sense of freedom as they explore the musical direction that they feel most confident with. While Trivia Goddess may not break new genre ground, it is surely not only a stand out record for the band, but also for 2025.
Rating: 7/10
Trivia Goddess is set for release on September 12th via Napalm Records.
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