Album Review: Wizard Tattoo – Fables of the Damned (Self Released)

Indianapolis-based rock band Wizard Tattoo, led by multi-instrumentalist Bram the Bard, will release their highly anticipated album ‘Fables of the Damned’ on June 23rd.

If you’re unfamiliar with Wizard Tattoo, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re about to listen to some variation on folk and/or power metal based off the look, cover art, and name of this album. So, it will come as something of a surprise for new listeners to find that this band is more of an eclectic mix of dark and doom-tinged rock with 90’s alt-metal vibes smattered throughout. A surprise, but a welcome one.

Even if you’re a returning listener, Fables of the Damned still offers up some surprises as it finds Wizard Tattoo in a heavier and darker mood.

Beginning with those aforementioned alt-metal 90’s vibes, Wizard Van is a chunky blend of groove and trippy energy. Right up to the end, where it drifts away, before coming back in for a chilled and ambient outro. Not to sure this part fits, but it is nice on the ears, and creates a good flow into the next track.

Which so happens to be The Black Mountain , and Wizard Tattoo sounding their moodiest. This is a track with some thick bass and ominous sounding vocals. Yet, once again, Wizard Tattoo change the tone as it goes on. Sounding a bit more ‘classic metal’, before transitioning back into the original rhythm with more emphasis on the guitar, thanks to the great solo.

The Vengeful Thulsa Dan is up next and it showcases some grungy roughness alongside a hearty dose of heaviness. Warped by the overall unusual style that Wizard Tattoo emphasises. Followed by the melodic drama of Any Which Way but Turned. The guitar tone and vocals are quire relaxing, even if there is an overall dark vibe to the track.

It doesn’t get heavier than The Ghost of Doctor Beast though. A clattering of doom that hits with such force. It is a drawn-out affair, but that’s not a negative as Wizard Tattoo increase the tempo around the halfway point and get even heavier. This is a banger track and arguably the highlight of the entire album.

Though there is little to complain about with the final two offerings; God Damn This Wizard Tattoo and Abendrote. The former finds Wizard Tattoo getting their alternative groove shoes on and the latter at their most relaxed sounding.

As far as variety and imagination goes, this is an impressive release from Wizard Tattoo. Filled with so many creative moments.

Wizard Tattoo – Fables of the Damned Track Listing:

1. Wizard Van
2. The Black Mountain
3. The Vengeful Thulsa Dan
4. Any Which Way but Tuned
5. The Ghost of Doctor Beast
6. God Damn This Wizard Tattoo
7. Abendrote

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