Sabbath Assembly Make Their Debut with "Restored to One"

Prepare for a lush and lively sound, one rooted in the vibe of the flower-powered 1960s and the New Age crystal-powered 1970s. That sound, given a modern touch with a sense of gothic flair (think of Lacuna Coil) is what Self Assembly have crafted on their debut effort Restored to One.

The band describes their approach as a modern response to the musical activities of a cult known as “The Process Church of Final Judgment,” which used music to spread their visions of Gnostic reconciliation. The church at one time was accused to being part of a Satanic underground conspiracy. Music played a pivotal role in the cult, with folks such as Marianne Faithful, George Clinton, and Mick Jagger participating in various publications put out by the church.

Musically, the band taps into old-school rock and roll with psychedelic underpinnings. Lead vocalist Jex Thoth (Wooden Wand and Vanishing Voice) has a dreamy approach, her croons easily seductive but also demanding of attention. Drummer Xtian uses jazz- and fusion-like percussion to weave intoxicating patterns over which guitarist Andy and bassist Dan Shuman overlay straightforward guitars and low-end vibes. Old-fashioned organs and moogs further accentuate the psychedelic experience, bringing about a Doors-like quality to some of the songs (think of “Riders of the Storm” or “The End”).

Lyrically, Sabbath Assembly explore not only the nature of Christ and Jehovah but also Lucifer and Satan. For example, the track “Judge of Mankind” delves into the lightbringer and unifier characteristics of Lucifer, whereas “Glory Hallelujah” is more in keeping with a traditional hymn. This dualism is what gives the compositions much of their power, and it is also this dualism that has made this type of philosophy unpopular with conventional Christianity and religion in general. Hence, the title of the band’s album comes clearly into focus, as Restored to One brings together Christ and Lucifer as both sides of one coin, as it were.

So, why should metal- and rivetheads bother with something so overtly melodic and gentle as Sabbath Assembly’s Restored to One? Because there is an uncanny wave of creepiness throughout the proceedings, not only in the lyrics but also in the musical structures. It’s this type of unease that leaves a lasting impression long after the CD has been put away. Truly mesmerizing yet bafflingly repellent, Restored to One must be experienced from start to finish.