Album Review: Sonus Mortis – Of Red Barren Earth (Self Released)

Symphonic death and doom metal solo project, Sonus Mortis (aka multi-instrumentalist Kevin Byrne), is back. Celebrating a decade of existence, and releasing the new album ‘’Of Red Barren Earth’ on December 1st, 2023.

Enjoy this new Sonus Mortis record, we’re not likely to get anything new in this guise from Kevin Byrne for a few years, as the plan is to take a break for a bit. A real pity as everything heard from Sonus Mortis has been gold, and that includes this new record. An eight-track behemoth of heavy death metal, twisted by dark doom, and coated with glorious symphonic melodies.

It’s a spectacular release, that doesn’t change the formula listeners will be expecting from Sonus Mortis, but sounds bigger and grander than ever. As dazzling as it is heavy and as harmonious as it is abrasive. The blend of vulgar intensity and attractive melody is perfected here, and all the clues that it is going to be a very special release are front and centre with the massive opener of Among the Marrow and the Machines. If you’re not sold immediately, you’re not paying enough attention.

While nothing as grand could follow that, The Elimination of the Archaic’s massive symphonies and crushing heavy pace is nothing to turn the nose up to. Nor does the following cacophony that comes from Overwhelming Mass, disappoint. Where the clean vocals make this one sound even more epic.

Then it’s time to experience something darkly sinister, garishly evil, and showcasing the doomier side of Sonus Mortis effectively. Then There was Silence from the World is one of the strongest tracks of all, because of the layered journey it takes the listener on.

Though layered journeys is par for the course with this record and the second half features plenty more grandeur and depth. Starting with dramatic tome that is the title track, and being followed by the maniacal intensity of Harbinger of Doom. Two sides to Sonus Mortis, given equal weight, and both as thrilling as the other.

Finally, it’s the pairing of Reality, Our Collective Destroyer, and The Threads of Life to end things with a blend blistering, hulking, lavish, and savage noise. Two colossus efforts that encapsulate everything great about Sonus Mortis and ensure this record is yet another unforgettable entry in the catalogue.

Until next time!

Sonus Mortis – Of Red Barren Earth Track Listing:

1. Among the Marrow and the Machines
2. The Elimination of the Archaic
3. Overwhelming Mass
4. Then There was Silence from the World
5. Of Red Barren Earth
6. Harbinger of Doom
7. Reality, Our Collective Destroyer
8. The Threads of Life

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