At the end of September MONOLORD dropped their new full length. While slightly behind schedule I have here a review for this new opus of Swedish Doom Metal. The album is out now via Relapse Records.
Sometimes you might feel like you want all the walls of riff a band such as Conan has to offer but maybe prefer something less abrasive or with a more minimalistic touch, that is where I enter Monolord as a fantastic choice to go with. The album opens with catchy and fuzzy riff work bringing in a Sabbath vibe from the onset, something I do not envision anybody complaining about. The haunting chill of distant vocals and primitive drum beats pounding adds to the slab of smooth grooves that hits us hard. The album has a very slow burn feel, like a pre 80s Horror movie that develops beautifully thought with glistening instrumental work that has a monstrous amount of amplification pushing some killer tones over hammered out drums. The vocals are minimal and really complement the music without ever becoming obnoxious, grating or getting in the way of the hypnotising catharsis this record offers. The crystal clear production allows you to truly experience each note of distorted, rumbling Doom Metal prowess that the band offer which delivers a crushing blow and excellent songwriting for over 45 minutes, making for a solid and relatively concise and punchy release that still has plenty of time to develop, and do so marvellously. With touches of psychedelia, grunge and so much attitude to back up a monolith of riff-craft, this moody record will have you entranced from the first play-through and will not become dull with repeat listens, making for a staunch and vibrant album all fans of Doom/Stoner/Sludge Metal will want to check out. From being tearfully melancholic and tranquil to full blow onslaughts of fuzzy doom, there is never a dull moment with Monolord. -8/10
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