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The Lamp of Thoth is, in its own way, some sort of a tribute to the origins of metal, the unholy masters, Black Sabbath. Not that they actually cover their songs, but a strong influence is felt in their songwriting and lyrical content, as well as in their sound. This trio from UK is formed by Lady Pentagram on drums, guitar player Randy Reaper and The Overtly Melancholic Lord Strange taking care of the bass and vocal duties.

This MCD contains three studio recordings and two live songs. I personally enjoyed the studio tracks more, mostly for their better sound quality, although the closing track "Into the Lair of the Gorgon" could be considered as the better of the two live recordings.

The Lamp of Thoth is being described as occult Doom Metal, and I have to agree with that description. Obscure, even Satanic and Witchcraft lyrical themes in a crushing Doom Metal environment. The compositions are rather simple, a bit repetitive and melodic. The guitar playing really takes the first role, by bringing the good ol' bone-crushing riffs or those tearing leads right upfront, directly under the spot lights. The rhythmic section is, off course, massively supporting this front player. My only little problem is with the vocals. I think they are kind of clean, a bit too much for the musical direction The Lamp of Thoth have chosen.

"Sunshine" and "Frost & Fire" really stands out as the more Sabbath-ish compositions offered on Cauldron of Witchery. Worth checking if you're into this type of music.