LEX TALIONIS

While not released as a standalone SOL INVICTUS album until 1993, "Lex Talionus" appeared as part of an untitled 3 disc boxset released in 1989 in which the other two discs were rounded out by DEATH IN JUNE and NURSE WITH WOUND It thus represented something of a missing link between their post punk and industrial "Against the Modern World" and the more sophisticated and folk-influenced offerings to follow.

The title phrase is essentially Latin for the system of justice based on punishment that is equivalent to the transgression committed, ie "an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth". After the meditative induction of "Blood and Wine" follow 5 superb tracks that really elevate this offering into the realm of SI classics. The title track and "Black Easter" set the scene for this largely anti Judeo-Christian expose against crudely yet creatively sustained notes mostly on guitar. "Kneel to the Cross" and later "Abattoirs of Love" are where the wyrd folk aspect is thrust into the foreground, signposting a better life sans both religion and romantic love. Wakeford struggles hitting some of the notes much as the listener might struggle to buy into what he is selling but this is impactful and authentic.

"The Ruins" is one of the more upbeat numbers and is slyly followed by the exquisitely genteel "Tooth and Claw", certainly the high water mark here. It oddly brings to mind the sort of buildups on the more atmospheric side by Polish neo prog group ALBION, who appeared some years later and may have been influenced by Wakeford's body of work. With such variations only expounded upon by "Heroes Day", I am nonplussed that a reviewer on RYM actually remarked that every track here sounded alike. Wow.

I could see why such an emotionally resonant and rough cut release could be counted by some as a peak for SOL INVICTUS. It certainly grabs one's attention early and, while it falters here and there, usually in adopting robotic mannerisms of its progenitors ("Blood against gold"), this album deserves to be gifted back as much as it offers us. 4 stars from this reviewer.