Six Litanies for Heliogabalus features six litanies-- or prayers-- for the infamous Roman emperor Elagabalus, or Heliogabalus. The emperor came to power at the young age of fourteen and, unfortunately, his rule was characterized by odd, cruel, deviant behaviour, which included him prostituting himself and raping a Vestal virgin. With this in mind, the music here is suitably chaotic, featuring a diverse range of styles. Patton's performance is extraordinary, notably his eight minute vocal solo "Litany IV". Pay no attention to those who say he just 'makes puke noises'; that song, and really this whole record, is a vocal masterclass. The other musicians are equally fantastic too. Not only the best Moonchild record, but one of the best in John Zorn's massive catalogue.
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