BMG releases Danse Macabre, a CD boxset by Swiss Extreme and Experimental Metal band Celtic Frost, incorporating three full albums, an EP and rehearsal recordings – all from 1984 to 1987. There are also other goodies incorporated. The set contains Morbid Tales (Full Remastered Album), To Mega Therion (Full Remastered Album, plus 'Tragic Serenades' bonus tracks), Into The Pandemonium (Full Remastered Album, plus 'I Won’t Dance' bonus tracks), Emperor’s Return (Full EP, plus bonus tracks), Grave Hill Bunker Rehearsals (1984), a 40-page book of brand new interviews with founding member Tom G Warrior and drummer Reed St Mark (contains rare and unseen photos from the era), a two-sided poster, ‘Necromaniac Union’ fan club enamel badge, and a ‘Danse Macabre’ sew-on woven patch...

Whilst being fully aware of the existence of Celtic Frost, I have never followed their music or seen them live (you can’t listen to them all!). Consequentially, I come to this review cold as the proverbial Frost. The early albums – up until the band’s initial split – are certainly diverse, giving credence to their reputation of an ever-changing and evolving entity. The boundaries are continually pushed until there exists a different sub-genre sound entirely. This material incorporates the releases under Noise Records. Morbid Tales I would describe as Extreme and Experimental, a mix of post-Hellhammer sound and an entirely new approach. Although Martin Ain was not involved in the second album (due to personal problems), To Mega Therion still cemented the group’s status, with a dark, heavy and orchestral feel. Doom is never very far behind, and you can’t help thinking of Black Sabbath at certain points. Into the Pandemonium is a shocking change, turning the sound at points into driving Rock/Metal – much more accessible to mainstream and possibly influenced by the record label.

Almost certainly, the real revelation here is the rehearsals recorded at the band’s Grave Hill Bunker. For any avid fans of Celtic Frost, this box set will prove invaluable. It’s nicely packaged, and what’s more there is an even better coloured vinyl box set option available.

8

Ty Power