The latest installment of the Book of Shadows phenomenon is “Twelve Degree Chandelier,” released on Tape Drift. This one carries with it the genius that makes Book of Shadows an unparalleled act; some of the least palpable textures available, the most unsettling vibe out there, and Sharon Crutcher’s patented phantasmal vocal drift. This album feels like it has something just a tad different about it from all the experiments before though. It seems to have gotten one foot further in the door of proper psychedelia. Although every effort preceding was a form of psych outing, this one is even more so, with a departure from the raw haunted house white noise thing to a more solidly meditative guitar induced emphasis.

In short, I believe “Twelve Degree Chandelier” is a watershed moment for Book of Shadows. It is truly an obvious rite of passage from the truly obscure and bizarre (in a good way) to a more welcoming embrace to other members of the subgenre culture. I could see drone junkies everywhere, whose bodies have naturally curved into the lotus position over time, giving this one a greater shot than other albums before. But, don’t get me wrong, this is still Book of Shadows. This is still what makes them great. However, if you had a harder time embracing them in the past this might be the time to give them a second chance. I have, and I haven’t looked back. Thanks Book of Shadows for another applause-worthy offering. All hail Book of Shadows! 9/10 -- Dave Miller (2 June, 2010)