Album Review: Throneless – Cycles (Black Bow Records)

On March 23rd 2018 Black Bow Records will release Cycles, four tracks of psychedelic doom metal by Swedish doom metal band Throneless.

If you like your doom…well…doomy, then look no further than Throneless’ second full length release. An epic, filth-encrusted effort that pushes the boundaries of what doom can be.

Born in Vain sticky rhythm is heavy on bass all while the vocals take on a distant screaming style. Being almost 10 minutes long, if Throneless didn’t vary things up it could easily become monotonous however smart tempo changes keep things interesting & lively. This is particularly prevalent in the last few minutes where the drums lead the song on a war charge of increased pace.

The title track begins with some sorrowful but pretty sounding guitar melody, soft bass & quiet drum beats before roughing things up brilliantly. The standout track of the album is followed by Senseless, a return to the booming bass doom heaviness. One that makes the vocals sound even more unearthly.

The final track on Cycles, is a near 15-minute doom epic. Oracle echoes through the skull, slow & methodical with sudden flashes of screeching guitar & psychedelic vocals. Unfortunately it’s not the strongest track of the four, going nowhere interesting in the end.

A small blemish on an otherwise near perfect doom release. One that embraces the old but showcases the new.

Throneless – Cycles Full Track Listing:

1. Born in Vain
2. Cycles
3. Senseless
4. Oracle

You can pick up Throneless’ music over on Bandcamp & also order the new album via Black Bow Records here. Find out more about the band by liking their Facebook Page.