Being that Root hails from the Czech Republic (a country that serves as a bastion for bizarre and obscure metal bands), it is of no surprise that their sound is indeed quite odd and will take many listens to truly grasp. Imagine, if you will, a strange hybrid of metal, atmospheric rock, and pastoral, folk elements in correllation with the fact that the Czech Republic consumes more alcohol per capita than any other country on this Earth (yes, even more so than Russa), and you have a very vague description of what Root is trying to accomplish.

Upon initial listen, The Book will be dismissed as nothing more than a difficult, inconsistent, impassable musical oddity with a few idiosyncracies jumping out on occasion to snag you in. However, it is of the utmost importance to mention that subsequent listens become more and more endearing until you eventually have a stunning album on your hands. Perhaps the most noteworthy thing about Root is the fact the members are able to construct melodies and songs that are very unique and inventive while at the same time being entirely memorable, as evident on the aptly titled, catchy "Remember Me!" and the opening title track. The atmospheric folk rock is at its best on songs such as the pastoral "The Mystical Words of the Wise" and the two-part "Corabeu" saga. With a whole slew of instruments ranging from your usual guitars, bass, synth, voice, and drums, to slightly unexpected instruments such as the violoncello (the full name for “the Cello”) and the ocarina, The Book is an entirely fulfilling and, most importantly, memorable release.

The most odd aspect of The Book is the unique voice and presence of Big Boss, the singer/visionary of Root. For the most part, Big Boss sings in a thundering, heroic, powerful, operatic baritone that is diversified into light crooning, spoken word that can be likened to the character of Stromboli from Pinochio, whispers, gruff melodic roaring a la Carl McCoy of Fields of the Nephilim, and sparse, truly painful-sounding rasps that is akin to the late Dead of Mayhem. I have read that Big Boss is now forty-eight years old. If this is the case, he sounds as if he has one hundred years of spunk left in him. It is indeed great to hear a performance so diverse and impassioned from a person of middle age (are you reading this, Ozzy Osbourne?).

In the long run, The Book is a very rewarding and fulfilling album that is well-worth the fifty-six minutes it takes of your scheduled existence. If bands like Love History, Silent Streams of Godless Elegy, or Master's Hammer are to your fancy, then add Root's The Book to your list.

Review by Alec A. Head

Review date: 05/2001

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