🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Funeral for a King
Track 2: Bushido
Track 3: Scourge of the Seven Hills
Track 4: Let Thy Snares Be Planted
Track 5: The Bargain
Track 6: Where the Candle Always Burns
Track 7: Blood Red Eyes
Track 8: Beauty and Terror
Track 9: Strait of Messina
🎸 Album Review:
Stygian Crown’s sophomore album, ‘Funeral For A King’, is a powerful and commanding display of epic doom metal that showcases the band’s growth and evolution since their debut. Released in 2020, this nine-track offering is a journey through dark, majestic soundscapes that are rich in atmosphere and steeped in traditional heavy metal influences.
From the moment the title track, “Funeral for a King,” kicks in, the listener is enveloped in a dense sonic tapestry of crushing riffs, thunderous drums, and haunting melodies. The album’s sound is characterized by its thick, sludgy guitar tones, soaring vocals, and intricate arrangements that create a sense of grandeur and gloom. Stygian Crown expertly weaves together elements of classic doom metal with hints of epic power metal, resulting in a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh.
Thematically, ‘Funeral For A King’ delves into dark and introspective themes, exploring concepts of mortality, power, and the human experience. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, adding depth and emotion to the music. Each track tells a story, drawing the listener into a world of despair and triumph, sorrow and redemption.
Standout tracks on the album include “Bushido,” a dynamic and intense song that showcases the band’s ability to seamlessly blend aggression with melody. The galloping riffs and powerful vocals create a sense of urgency and passion, making it a highlight of the album. “Scourge of the Seven Hills” is another standout track, with its epic atmosphere and crushing heaviness drawing the listener in and refusing to let go.
“Let Thy Snares Be Planted” is a slower, more brooding track that highlights the band’s talent for crafting intricate and atmospheric compositions. The haunting melodies and melancholic vibe make this song a standout moment on the album. “Blood Red Eyes” is another highlight, with its infectious chorus and powerful vocal performance leaving a lasting impression.
Compared to Stygian Crown’s debut album, ‘Funeral For A King’ shows a noticeable growth in songwriting and musicianship. The band has honed their sound and crafted a more cohesive and immersive listening experience. While their debut was strong, ‘Funeral For A King’ feels like a more mature and fully realized effort, showcasing the band’s potential and setting them apart in the doom metal scene.
Overall, ‘Funeral For A King’ is a triumph for Stygian Crown, solidifying their place as one of the most exciting bands in the doom metal genre. The album is a masterclass in epic, atmospheric metal that will appeal to fans of traditional heavy metal as well as lovers of all things dark and heavy. With its powerful riffs, haunting melodies, and emotive vocals, ‘Funeral For A King’ is a captivating listening experience that demands to be heard. Stygian Crown has truly created a magnum opus with this album, and it cements their status as a band to watch in the world of heavy music.