EP Review: Denali – Denali (Self Released)

Born during the long and introspective Summer of 2020, Denali is a melodic death-doom metal band which seeks to weave dark narratives into a musical tapestry that balances soul haunting melody and crushing heaviness, to wrap the listener in a cocoon of palpable sorrow.

The brainchild of James McGrenery, what began as an outlet for a few ideas quickly became something far more meaningful, and it became clear that the band needed to be filled with high quality musicians to fulfil its potential.

At this stage, James turned to friends and inimitable talents Ross King, Nathan Robshaw (both of Countless Skies), Adam C Taylor (of Everest Queen) and Simon Marston (Cerberus Unchained) and the formation of Denali was complete.

The band played its first show in September of 2021, and entered the studio to record its debut in February of 2022.

The self-titled debut EP ‘Denali’ will be released April 1st on CD & digital.

A 3-track EP this might be but Denali are not messing around here. Each track, a gargantuan and epic showcase of melodic atmosphere, crushing doom and ferocious death. Each track, a journey that is dark and cold but with an impressive display of fiery passion and, of course, the talents to make each step feel as important as the last.

The blend of touching melody and bone-crushing doominess that comes crashing down upon the mind in Catafalque is one hell of a start. The 10+ minute track, flying by in a blur of doomy-death and captivating atmosphere.

Following that, Beneath the Waves has a bit more energy to it as Denali take the listener on a trip into the doomy ether but deliver some roaring riffs and enlightening moments of levity.

No light will ever reach this place.

The 3rd and final track is Deathless and sees Denali continue to balance the wonderful melodies, atmosphere and heaviness of their sound perfectly. The methodical thumping rhythm, the haunting touches and general feeling of oppressiveness makes for another stellar track.

A very strong debut release. The talent involved speaks for itself.

Denali – Denali Full Track Listing:

1. Catafalque
2. Beneath The Waves
3. Deathless

Links

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