The press release offers this: "Idolum is a new chapter in the sonic history of Ufomammut, presenting a sensible evolution in the sound and in the structure of the songs: dark atmospheres, simple and mastodontic song frameworks, a different idea of psichedelia [sic]. Idolum is a Latin word meaning 'ghost' and 'idea' at the same time, representing the massive but hidden presence as the main concepts of the album." An evolution in their sound is evident but it seems the band have traded in at least some of their urging and insistent groove for a more direct approach. Perhaps this will lend itself to more fans and record sales. Stand out tracks include "Ammonia," which features ethereal vocals from guest Rose Kemp, as well as the relatively fast paced "Destroyer." Lorenzer (Lento) lends his guitar on "Elephantom," which appears as a sort of "hidden track" - it's tacked onto the end of track 7 instead of getting its own number, for whatever reason.

And about that lucky number seven.... It starts off with "Void," a minimalist piece with more atmosphere then aggression. However, at about 4 minutes into it, the band's heaviest output to date is unfurled, though this is not the "Elephantom" - a massive specter, to make a play on words. No, one has to wade through some ~12 minutes of electro-ambience after "Void" before the final song is heard. While slightly bothersome, and a bit silly since the filler has to have been employed only to reach a run time of 66:06, "Elephantom" is a winner in its 5+ minutes, particularly the 'heavyosity' of the last 2:22.

written by Tony Belcher

Playing time: 66:06