ALBUM REVIEW: Crypt Sermon – The Ruins Of Fading Light

Here I review the second album of Doom Metal juggernauts, CRYPT SERMON which is set for release via Dark Descent Records on September 13th. This record promises to be some epic and riff-driven material.

The album draws in on glorious ambience and samples, with a battle-ready approach to the sounds, building a medieval tension beautifully. Fast paced riffing and thrashy drums kick in, an unexpected but pummelling start to the record. With plentiful classic grooves, soaring leads and a perfect production, the wailing howls of epic vocals soon join the instrumental hammering, adding to the enemy vanquishing power of the sound. There is a beautiful Candlemass vibe to the band which is has that classic NWOBHM influence on the doomy assault. Intense melodies and fierce drum work keeps you enticed among the morbidity of grooving guitars, thunderous drums, grinding bass and luscious vocals.

The band have a unique sound yet it still feels old school and familiar, not compromising the true Doom Metal spirit at any point nor feeling like a rip-off. There is a melancholy to the album which is bittersweet due to the sheer amount of powerhouse builds, exciting hooks and monumentally epic vibe throughout. The thunder-crack chugs and macabre soundscapes only grows in strength throughout, feeling like a modern classic that will remain timeless. If you want classic Doom Metal, look no further. If you do not, then I am not quite sure why you’re reading a CRYPT SERMON review. Utterly phenomenal musicianship, songwriting, lyricism and production.

I truly find it hard to flaw the album, that is perfectly timed with no songs overstaying their welcome nor being too short to properly and effectively build up. The sound is straightforward, maybe lacking a touch of diversity that could really throw people off, but I am clutching at straws to find negatives on this pure beast of an album.

An unforgettable journey into Medieval Doom Metal glory with rich guitars, pounding drums and glacial vocals to create a tranquil yet crushing affair of truly marvellous heaviness filled with atmospheric glory and punishingly emotional soundscapes, just how Doom Metal should be! -9/10