Sound: This is Witchfinder General's second album, after Death Penalty, and is their last album with vocalist Zeeb Parkes. Friends of Hell continues in the same vain as their other work (i.e. doomy NWOBHM heavily influenced by Black Sabbath) although this album has much better sound quality then their other releases. This album has a different sound then Death Penalty, namely a more theatrical feel in both the playing and singing, and some songs take a little more to get into then on their other albums
One of the obvious improvements, however, is the album cover. While Death Penalty featured one scantily clad lady, Friends of Hell has five! // 8
Lyrics and Singing: One of the first things you'll notice if you're familiar with the bands earlier work, is how much Zeeb's voice has changed, from his youthful squeaky voice to a more theatrical, fuller sound. Some people may not like it as much, but I think it is definetly more suitable for these songs.
The lyrics of the songs deal with a wide range of subjects, including time travel (Last Chance) depression (Requiem for Youth) and possible necrophilia (Love on Smack) // 7
Impression: The band takes its Sabbath influenced sound from the earlier records, and moves it into an area all its own on Friends of Hell. My favourite songs on the album are Love on Smack, Requiem for Youth, and Music, and even though all the songs on this album may not be as instantly likable as on Death Penalty ('I Lost You'. 'Friends of Hell'), there is still lots to love.
An overall great album, and a shame that they couldnt make a third with Zeeb before splitting. // 8
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