New Tombs music!
“Vermillion” bodes well for Tombs‘ upcoming album Path of Totality, out June 7 on Relapse. You can hear it here.
Beefy production and an aggressive, black metal-based attack are immediately evident. Mike Hill opens up musically – a necessary move for his trio – with a variety of voicings, both vocally and guitar-wise. His opening verse is pure Tom G. Warrior. The second verse shifts up to his trademark moan, then down to low growls. An instrumental outro with rich chords follows. (Helmet comes to mind.) The writing and execution are sure-handed and powerful. For a while, Tombs have sounded like they’re finding their way, but they may have found it now.
While Tombs aren’t black metal per se, it’s embedded in their DNA. Their push and pull between black metal and other elements (hardcore, shoegaze) feels very much alive. Kindred spirits Altar of Plagues and Castevet are pushing things forward, too. People might disrespect these bands for not being “pure” – but they should respect them for being unique. It’s hard to find a musical identity; it’s harder to channel it well. Tombs’ voice just got more singular.
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TOMBS – REMAINING TOUR DATES
w/ Womrot
Mar 29 Gallery 5 – Richmond, VA
Mar 30 The Red Door – Washington, DC
Mar 31 Kung Fu Necktie – Philadelphia, PA
Apr 01 Club Oasis – Worcester, MA
Apr 02 O’Brien’s – Allston, MA
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PRE-ORDER PATH OF TOTALITY
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