Old Rope

Don't be fooled by the inconspicuous title. This is indeed a greatest hits set from English retro-thrashers Skyclad, albeit an incomplete one seeing as the band continued to issue original material since its release in 1996. As such, Old Rope constitutes an ideal first glimpse at the bizarre treasures of the band's first five records. All of which attempted to combine violent staccato guitar thrashing, violin-led folk flourishes, and the loquacious ranting (and lisping) of vocalist "mad" Martin Walkyier. Short on immediacy but high on originality, live renditions of "Spinning Jenny" and "The Declaration of Indifference" add a little spice, while standouts such as "The Widdershins Jig," "Thinking Allowed," and "Craddle Will Fall" take mind-boggling stylistic twists and turns. Still, nothing can compare to the wild mood swings contained in "Earth Mother, the Sun and the Furious Host." A fascinating ride. ~ Eduardo Rivadavia|