Hailing from Saint Petersburg, Russia, Edoma casts a long shadow with their debut album, “Buried by Permafrost.” Released in April 2023, this offering is a haunting exploration of the unforgiving Siberian landscape, both physical and metaphorical. Through a blend of atmospheric black metal, post-metal, and folk influences, Edoma weaves a tapestry of sonic desolation that is both beautiful and terrifying.
The album opens with the aptly titled “Gates II,” a slow-burning instrumental that sets the stage for the journey ahead. Layers of icy guitars shimmer and groan, creating a sense of vast emptiness. The haunting melody hints at a forgotten beauty buried beneath the frozen earth. This melancholic mood continues into “Through The Black Forests Alone,” where vocalist Slava delivers pained screams that echo the isolation of the Siberian wilderness.
Edoma’s music is not merely about bludgeoning heaviness. Tracks like “The Execution Of Eternal Winter” showcase a masterful use of dynamics. The song builds from a quiet, melancholic intro to a crushing midsection, only to descend back into a state of desolate calm. This ebb and flow perfectly captures the harsh beauty and unforgiving nature of the permafrost.
The folk influences that permeate the album add a unique layer to the music. “The Legend of Crystal Lake” incorporates traditional instrumentation and melodies, creating a sense of ancient mystery and folklore. This track, along with “Mystery Of Vottovaara,” hints at the rich cultural heritage that lies beneath the frozen surface.
The album reaches its climax with the epic closer, “The Cult Of Raven.” This ten-minute journey takes the listener through a gamut of emotions, from crushing despair to a sense of awe-inspiring vastness. The final notes fade away, leaving a lingering sense of isolation and the chilling beauty of the permafrost.
“Buried by Permafrost” is not an easy listen. The slow tempos and melancholic atmosphere demand patience from the listener. However, for those willing to surrender to the experience, the album offers a rewarding journey through a desolate and unforgiving world. Edoma proves themselves to be a band with a distinct voice and a talent for crafting truly immersive music.
Highlights:
- “The Execution Of Eternal Winter”: A dynamic track showcasing Edoma’s mastery of atmosphere.
- “The Legend of Crystal Lake”: A unique blend of black metal and folk influences.
- “The Cult Of Raven”: An epic closer that leaves a lasting impression.
Score: 8.8/10
Recommended for fans of:
- Alcestis
- Deafheaven
- Moonsorrow
- Blut Aus Nord
- Agalloch
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