Beatrik - Requiem of December (Avantgarde Music, 2005)

I don't really hear much about the underground metal scene in Italy. I don't even know if there is much going on. So, I was surprised to discover an Italian band comprised of equal parts depressive black metal and funeral doom. Really impressive material here. Plodding DSBM guitar a la Xasthur or Nortt is contrasted by classic dark organ sounds, and simple doom drums with an occasional blast beat. There is even a bit of nature worship thrown in there under the Varg-like gurgling vocals. The recording is fairly clean and well done.

Sounds like cutting your arms while the church bells ring...



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Loss - Despond (Profound Lore, 2011)

Nashville doomsayers Loss have finally achieved a full-length album and the result is passionate, moving and simply stunning. For all you kids out there that think you listen to "Doom" this might be a wake up call and a redefinition. Doom is not smoking weed and chillaxin' with your bros. Doom is remorse, sorrow, regret and suicide and self-loathing. A soundtrack for when you're numb or too depressed to shed a tear.

Loss has mastered these emotions. A sprawling, barren and pitiful landscape devoid of anything positive is delicately presented to us on Despond. When listening, its almost as if this music is a loving arm placed on your shoulder in an attempt to comfort but not knowing what to say.

While depressing in subject matter, this remains epic and beautiful music. Fans of Asunder and Katatonia will welcome this as a masterpiece almost six years in the making. This is funeral doom. This is one of the best albums of 2011. Enjoy.

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Loss - Life Without Hope...Death Without Reason (2004, DEMO)

This is a really impressive demo from these Nashville Funeral Doom monsters. Slow and crushing songs about pain, illness and depression that obviously take cues from Thergothon and Mourning Beloved. Nothing run of the mill here either. Its a true homage to a life of depression leading to the inevitable release of suicide. Also included on this re-issue download is an outstanding live cover of Katatonia's "Brave" with guest vocals by Imperial from Krieg, as well as another Loss song that shows their affinity for Blackened Death as well.

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