The Pitch: Fresh off of an amazing tour with Enslaved, Myrkur, and Wolves In The Throne Room, Denver doom quartet Khemmis presents their anxiously-anticipated third album through Nuclear Blast. FFO: Monolord, Baroness, Seer
What I Like: I only like my doom in two flavors: blackened and depraved (Primitive Man, Lord Mantis)... and Khemmis. I mean, sure, I'm into Black Sabbath, but that's largely the extent of my enjoyment of the traditional, stoner flavor. There's something about this band that just does the style right. The soaring guitar harmonies, the evocative clean vocals, the fantasy imagery... this is classic metal to the core. I'd love to see them do a soundtrack to a Heavy Metal type animated feature using the style of the album covers. Add onto this that they are amazing live and you've got the full package. Hearing those solos resonate through my entire body was a religious experience. It's atmosphere that takes you place.
Critiques: Desolation isn't quite as consistent as Hunted or the debut. About half of these 6 tracks, while still strong, get a little dull at time; at least for someone who is more of a death and black metal fan. Speaking of which, and maybe it's just me, but I feel like there are fewer harsh vocals this time around. This balance was something I really appreciated about the band in the past.
The Verdict: Would I still prefer to throw on an Artificial Brain or Schammasch album? Sure. But if I'm in the mood for some ethereal doom metal, I'm reaching for Khemmis. Those who enjoyed the last two albums will likely dig this one, and if you're new to the band, this is as good an entry point as any. Catch them this year at Roadburn, Doom Over Leipzig, Maryland Deathfest, Migration Fest, and Heavy Montreal. Damn, do they hustle.
Flight's Fav's: Bloodletting, Isolation, Maw Of Time
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
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