Album Review: Warpath Spawn – Cold and Bleak (MSH Music Group)

From the depths of St. Louis, Missouri comes Warpath Spawn. Established in 2018, the atmospheric black metal band have released a handful of demos and one EP, and will now release their debut full-length album ‘Cold and Bleak’ on the 29th of March, 2023 via MSH Music Group.

Showcasing atmospheric gloom and blackened devastation in egregious style, Warpath Spawn erupt from the underworld with the intense Hymn of Sorrow, Pt. 1. The blend of attractive ambience and harsh heaviness is extremely appealing. Especially as it has a refinement you don’t expect from such a young band.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u089tidXho4

It’s not a one-off either as the following Whispers of the Fallen Branches builds on Warpath Spawn’s heavy sound with thrashier and bleaker tones. Developing as it goes on and allowing the instruments to really shine. Followed then by the dramatic melodies and harsh blackness of the title track. Before an impressive guitar display comes in the form of The Flickering of Candles. A track with a more rock-orientated vibe.

The blackened bleakness is back with great aplomb on the Hymn of Sorrow, Pt. 2. Warpath Spawn delivering epic sounding atmospheric melody and metal. This track, alongside Pt. 1, is the best of what this album has to offer. Which is no slur upon the other tracks. It’s just that these two are a cut above the rest.

Even if the finale of Waterstreams is a solid effort too. The shortest track, it begins in weighty and harsh style, before transitioning into cold and beak melody to close things out.

A very good debut album. Warpath Spawn will leave an impression.

Warpath Spawn – Cold and Bleak Track Listing:

1. Hymn of Sorrow, Pt. 1
2. Whispers of the Fallen Branches
3. Cold and Bleak
4. The Flickering of Candles
5. Hymn of Sorrow, Pt. 2
6. Waterstreams

Links

Bandcamp | Instagram