Album Review: Mnajdra - In The Name of the Goddess

 Album Review

Artist: Mnajdra 

In The Name of the Goddess

Release Date August, 09, 2024

Label: Fiadh Productions

Score 8/10

Review by Rick Eaglestone

Following last year’s self-titled debut, this latest release dives into Malta’s long history of goddess worship

Album opener Mouth of the Wind is completely shrouded with an ominous presence throughout that serves a great snapshot of the overall aesthetic of the albums subject matter - amongst the bleak outlay are shards of razor sharp fury that slice through into the slower more purposeful follow up Bastion which still maintains a frenzied level of intensity , easily the albums crowning glory.

Coming in at nearly nine minutes is The Maymuna Stone which has a wonderful narrative flow as it also allows the musicianship to really develop and showcases a maturity in song writing from the previous release, the soundscapes of earlier tracks again make a flawless appearance adding another dynamic to what feel likes the albums most visceral vocal delivery thrown in for good measure.

Instrumental offering Oracle Chamber is well balanced and well placed within the album and serves and not only a intermission pierce but a great introduction to At Earliest Dawn

The final combination of Calypso and For The Son of Bat, The King further emphasise the use of atmospherics and complete what has been overall a very intense, yet immersive listen