Pentagram – First Daze Here (The Vintage Collection) (2002) Review
First Daze Here is more than just a compilation—it’s a crucial historical document for doom metal fans. Released in 2002, this collection brings together some of Pentagram’s earliest recordings from the 1970s, a time when they were an underground legend waiting to be rediscovered.
Sound & Style
The tracks on First Daze Here showcase a raw, proto-doom sound heavily influenced by Black Sabbath, Blue Cheer, and early hard rock bands. But what sets Pentagram apart is Bobby Liebling’s unmistakable, eerie vocal delivery, along with the riff-driven intensity that would later define doom metal.
• “Forever My Queen” kicks off the album with a sinister yet infectious riff, proving why it remains one of Pentagram’s most celebrated songs.
• “When the Screams Come” leans into dark, psychedelic doom, while “20 Buck Spin” brings a bluesy swagger, showing their versatility.
• “Be Forewarned” is a haunting standout, drenched in occult atmosphere with chilling vocals.
• “Last Days Here” closes the album on a somber, melancholic note, an emotional contrast to the heaviness before it.
Production & Atmosphere
Since these tracks were recorded in various demo sessions in the 1970s, the production varies, but the remastering does an excellent job of preserving their raw, vintage energy. It’s lo-fi, unpolished, and full of analog warmth—giving the songs an authentic underground charm.
Impact & Legacy
First Daze Here is essential listening for anyone interested in the roots of doom metal. It showcases a band that was ahead of its time, laying the foundation for future doom and stoner metal acts. If you’re a fan of Sabbath, Saint Vitus, or The Obsessed, this compilation is a must-have.
Final Verdict: 9/10
A powerful glimpse into Pentagram’s early years, First Daze Here is a raw, haunting, and undeniably influentialcollection. It’s a vital piece of doom metal history that proves why Pentagram deserves its legendary status.
BY RUE MORGUE RECORDS
