194 - Voivod Tribal Convictions 1988

If guitarist and main riff writer Piggy had hinted at his unusual approach on previous albums, then ‘Dimension Hatross’ was and remains his maturation as one of the most innovative players within and outside of metal. Dissonance tangles with odd diminished fingerings, laid over some highly unusual time signatures and complex rhythmic ideas. Bassist Blacky and drummer Away are insanely tight on this album, steering through this fascinating and sometimes frightening cosmic drama with a natural ease. “Tribal Convictions” remains the standout on the album. It’s the most complete trip, from the creepy tribal thunder of the opening, to the hypnotic mid-paced pulse of the body, to the watery syncopation in the middle and the frantic thrash-rush of the ending.