Review Summary: A fine release that stands out amongst most Prog-Death records.
'Khaooohs' is not what you'd initially expect from this band. At 44 minutes, it would be expected that there would be a very beefy lengthed track within its entirety. However, that's not true whatsoever. The longest track, "Utsikt", doesn't even manage to scratch the ten minute mark. This is the first thing noticeably different about this record from the rest of the "Pan.Thy.Monium" discography, with many more to come.
The first track is purely instrumental and remiscent of the opening track from the previous record. Incessant ticking noises followed by muffled howls of some kind for a mere 1:50. However odd this may sound, it's only the first of four of these tracks, even though "I Vindens Våld" can technically be classed as an outro. These tracks do highlight the avant-garde elements to the record and grant it a sense of character with a unique aurora.
Instrumentally, this record is quite exceptional. The guitar tone is not clear as day, but is largely forgivable considering this was a death metal release in 1993, and was the bands second album. From this, it can safely be gathered that the finest production was not available from this album. But, this does not fault the record, as it gives it a vintage sound that can actually be comprehended, unlike some death metal releases, such as 'Cryptosy's' debut. As well as this, technicality and originality is displayed in Robert and Dag's playing, showing their capabilities to create melodies within the classic, crunching death metal guitar tone.
Drums on this record are definitely above average but do not capture to effect that the guitars emit. Blast beats do not plague this record in the slightest, and a variety of beats and patterns are showcased throughout the 44 minutes. It is also worth to mention that the sound of the drums aren't overpowering and give way for the over instruments, which is often a problem with death metal releases. This is not a highlight of the record, but are a strong, positive factor nonetheless.
Dan Swanö plays his part in this record very well, as he usually does. The bass is audible, and varies from quick flurries to large slaps. Extreme metal releases, especially those this early on, are notorious for muting the bass with other, overpowering instruments. Fortunately, that's not the case here. The addition of a keyboard and effects to all these instruments adds a sense of magic to the record, giving it surreal effects and a sense of finesse. This perfectly captures the unique qualities of this record, making it a largely unforgettable listen.
It is certain that this record has not got the attention it deserves, and is perhaps overshadowed by the future release of this band. But, it is by no means weak in any way. This, paired with the positive factors I previously mentioned, capture why this record deserves to be held as a classic within Avant-garde metal, Death metal and Progressive metal.
