TONTTU - 6: Also Sprach Gnomethrustra

'Twas the night before Christmas and all was quite silent. Little Johnny slept tightly under his covers, while Mommy and Daddy prepared cookies and notes for the fat jolly red man under the tree. It was sure to be a delightful evening...Only Little Johnny, Mommy, and Daddy made one huge mistake: They forgot that the sinister Santa Claus was the absolute and supreme commander of mankind's most devious and plague bearing enemies: Gnomes. Or, at least this is what Finnish band TONTTU would have you believe. 

That's right, the crazy banter from Martial Industrial, er,  Anti-Gnomemartialindustrialneofolkmetal band TONTTU is back in their latest album "6: Also Sprach Gnomethrustra". Completely humorous as always (or not, if you're willing to set aside reality and embrace the evil Gnome mythology TONTTU has so lovingly crafted throughout the years) TONTTU's latest album not only features their standard Anti-Gnome propaganda, but also features some new rewired song structures that allows the band to evolve and mature - at least musically. 

Metal really takes precedence this time around, which is most prominent on 'Tonttumarssi'. The war drums and beat play out nicely, but it's the addition of black metal tinged guitars that really set the pace. But, don't worry, Tonttufindergeneral Hanz-Baal's ever enraging and fight-worthy lyrics and chants are still present. They aren't the most handsome vocals ever heard, but, for a parody band they work extremely well. Whether it's the grimly sounding 'Saunan Tonttu' which comes packed with a comedic and folkish sound, the actually well produced and drum pounding intro 'Gnomen Est Omen', the rather mystical 'Kolossus, Tontut ja Korpit (Kunnioittaen Ethernalia)', or the instrumental outro (which is TONTTU's best musical outing to date), TONTTU has actually come across better than ever. 

There are also four remixes done by Lupo Von Volpe, Z-Hunter Gutsmuths, DJ Vrhovny, and Thomas Jude Barclay Morrison. My favorite mix on the album was the last one done by Thomas Jude Barclay Morrison. He does less a remix and more of a cover of TONTTU's 'My Struggle'. He gets rid of most elements of electronic music and transforms it into a folk song that would fit perfectly in an RPG. Also, he transfers the lyrics from Finnish to English which was a welcome addition. Perhaps this will help spread Anti-Gnome propaganda in English speaking countries more than not. But, some people just choose to remain ignorant. Sigh. 

But, for both myself and those of you who are willing to understand the threat that Gnomes possess to us on a daily basis, "6: Also Sprach Gnomethrustra" is an absolute delight and TONTTU's best outing thus far. It comes just in time for Christmas, as well, serving as a warning message for the Gnome that describes himself as a holiday mascot who hands out presents. There is no better time to get ready to kick the ever loving shit out of some Gnomes. So, blast all your TONTTU albums and anti-Gnome music, and fight the good fight. I'll be there with you, brothers and sisters. May the Gods shine brightly on us!
Dec 21 2015