🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: A River of Iron Flows Where Once the Gallows Stood
Track 2: +37.717364 // Morbid Nomad
Track 3: To Thine Barbed Wire Noose Be True
Track 4: Loop 8 (The Crossing)
🎸 Album Review:
**Album Review: ‘No Matter What, I Will Not Send You Into The Darkness Alone’ by John Haughm**
**Introduction:**
John Haughm, best known as the mastermind behind the iconic band Agalloch, has ventured into new territory with his solo release ‘No Matter What, I Will Not Send You Into The Darkness Alone’. This album showcases Haughm’s evolution as a musician and songwriter, exploring themes of solitude, introspection, and the darkness that resides within us all.
**Sound and Themes:**
From the moment the album begins with “A River of Iron Flows Where Once the Gallows Stood,” it is evident that Haughm has crafted a sonic landscape that is both haunting and hypnotic. The music is characterized by layers of atmospheric guitars, ethereal vocals, and intricate percussion, creating a sense of unease and melancholy throughout. Haughm’s signature blend of folk, black metal, and ambient influences shines through, but with a more stripped-down and introspective approach.
Thematically, ‘No Matter What, I Will Not Send You Into The Darkness Alone’ delves into the depths of the human psyche, exploring themes of isolation, despair, and the struggle for inner peace. Haughm’s introspective lyrics paint a vivid picture of a journey through darkness, with moments of light and hope peeking through the shadows.
**Standout Tracks:**
One of the standout tracks on the album is “+37.717364 // Morbid Nomad,” a mesmerizing piece that showcases Haughm’s ability to create a sense of atmosphere and mood with his music. The song unfolds like a dark, haunting journey through the unknown, with layers of guitars building and receding like waves crashing on a desolate shore.
Another highlight is “To Thine Barbed Wire Noose Be True,” a track that captures the essence of despair and resignation. Haughm’s vocals soar over a backdrop of mournful guitars and haunting melodies, creating a sense of sorrow and longing that lingers long after the song has ended.
**Comparison to Previous Albums:**
Fans of Haughm’s work with Agalloch will find ‘No Matter What, I Will Not Send You Into The Darkness Alone’ to be a departure from the band’s more expansive and dynamic sound. While Agalloch’s music often incorporated elements of nature and the outdoors, Haughm’s solo album focuses more on the inner landscapes of the mind and soul. The music on this album is more introspective and personal, with a raw and intimate quality that sets it apart from his previous work.
**Overall Impact:**
‘No Matter What, I Will Not Send You Into The Darkness Alone’ is a bold and uncompromising statement from John Haughm, showcasing his talent as a musician and his ability to create music that is both evocative and emotionally resonant. The album invites listeners to immerse themselves in a world of darkness and introspection, where beauty and despair coexist in perfect harmony.
In conclusion, ‘No Matter What, I Will Not Send You Into The Darkness Alone’ is a powerful and immersive listening experience that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to venture into its dark and haunting depths. Haughm’s solo debut is a testament to his creativity and vision as an artist, and a reminder that sometimes it is in the darkness that we find our truest selves.