Seven Sisters of Sleep: Ezekiel's Hags

The best word to describe this band right now is "momentum." Having released two full-length albums and several splits and EPs, the band is back with another full-length, this one their debut with Relapse Records. My first exposure to the band came when I reviewed Opium Morals. I remember praising the band for its blend of styles and was excited about the increased attention to the band. If things are looking up for the band—and they are—the music is no less dark, no less hopeless. The songs on this album are consistently heavy and gritty and tight. This album blends a formless sludge with the power of doom metal and the occasional hyperactivity of grind. Fans will also hear components of d-beat, hardcore, and death metal. None of these labels are particularly helpful with a band like this, especially since they balance things effectively and with an eye to developing their own sound. There are even ambient elements at play on this one.

I'd suggest starting with "Gutter," a doom laden track that includes some of the aforementioned ambient moments at the beginning and, even more, at the end. When the opening riff starts, it comes with power and precision, giving listeners a track worthy of the best doom metal. The vocals are even better, crushing and despairing. "Plateau" is right up there, a slow-tempo powerhouse. "War Master," the band's first single (and music video) from this album is another highlight. My favorite track, besides "Gutter" was probably "Ud-Nun." I don't know what the title refers to, but the song is killer. It also leads directly into "War Master" so you even get more of the band's crushing musical weight.

Relapse Records should be proud of this album. It sounds great and shows off a band that is clearly reaching new heights in the extreme metal world.

Track Listing:
1. Jones
2. Denounce
3. Gutter
4. Plateau
5. Brother's River
6. Prey
7. Third Season
8. Sacred Prostitute
9. Ud-Nun
10. War Master
11. Bastard Son

Added: February 20th 2016
Reviewer: Carl Sederholm
Score:
Related Link: Band Facebook Page
Hits: 1664
Language: english

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