The Pitch: Black and doom metal out of Portland, Oregon from Lowered via Throne Records. FFO: Fell Ruin, Creeping, Oldd Wvrms
What I Like: This is a super solid debut with a little bit of everything. First off, there's the massive doom sound with riffs that bring down the house. The massive production mixed with the choices in bass and distortion are nicely offset by the bleak and raspy snarls. The vocalist sounds lost in a black ocean of isolation; crying out with their last remaining breaths. Pacing is also very strong, showcasing the aforementioned sludgy doom, but also vicious outbreaks of destructive tremolo and blastbeats. "Unreal" and "Blame The Hunger..." have particularly ripping black metal moments that prove Lowered are a capable band at any pace. And there are even some blackened, post-metal infused riffs a la Deathspell Omega that further add to the dark atmosphere and tone.
Critiques: This is that rare debut that leaves me with little in the way of criticism. There's nothing I would take away: only things I might add. If Lowered want to take things to the next level, I'd like to see further experimentation while still maintaining their core sound.
The Verdict: Lowered is a fantastic debut from a band that seems very comfortable working within a number of styles and influences. For an early release, I am very impressed with everything from the tight performances to the choices in production. Buy this album, support this band, be sure to watch for them in the future.
Flight's Fav's: Unreal, Blame the Hunger for the Throat
-Review by FlightOfIcarus
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