Bloodgood

Item: Out Of The Darkness
Author: Doug Van Pelt

Out Of The Darkness

(1989)

Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt

Discogs Apple Music TIDAL Amazon Music Spotify YouTube Music

Label Frontline RecordsHeaven's Metal #21October/November 1989

hard rock heavy metal pop metal

Those of you who favor Bloodgood's crunchier style (a la Bloodgood and Detonation) should sink your teeth into this release. It features much of the speed and crunch of their first two albums while incorporating some of the melodic hooks of their last album. You could say that Bloodgood is between Detonation and Rock In A Hard Place.

The title track kicks in with drums, serving as an introduction to new drummer Kevin Whisler. Back are Les Carlsen's passionate screams and high-pitched wails.

The two highlights for me are: "Hey You!" and "Top Of The Mountain". "Hey You!" comes roaring out of the speakers with a loud 'n' sassy guitar riff reminiscent of Van Halen's first album. It's a fun metally blues number with a shouting/chanting gang chorus of "Hey! Hey you!"

"Top Of The Mountain" finds Bloodgood in full stride. They're using melodic mood and tempo changes a la "Alone In Suicide" to create an emotional song, which effectively communicates the message of power and intimacy in prayer. Paul Jackson, who joined Bloodgood in the studio for this project, adds some melodic guitar leads that are passionate and precise.

"Let My People Go", which starts off with a guitar melody similar to the "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" riff (Michael and Les are professing Beatles fans), and then dives into a fun pop-metal rhythm.

"America" starts off with an acappella intro of "America, America" and then kicks into a lament over America's downfall and the need for the Spirit of God to "fall on us."

"It's Alright" doesn't do it for me. It's not a bad song, but I'd call it the only dud on the album and move on.

"Changing Me" is a good rock ballad with a nice, moving bass line. Kevin lays down some good drumming here too.

"Mad Dog World" is a consistent hard-rockin' tune. Paul lays down some mean licks here.

"New Age Illusion" is a fast song exposing the lies of the New Age Movement: "Don't let those demons haunt you/ they'll run if you pray...don't let these teachings bind you/ call on his name/ Jesus, call on Jesus/ Look what He's done for me/ Jesus, call on Jesus/ get down on your knees."

Most of the song lyrics have several scripture references, offering an in-depth Bible study for those willing to investigate. Hot album.