Finnish Doom Duo Desolate Realm Drop Fiery New Single
~Doomed & Stoned Debuts~
By Billy Goate
Art by Skaðvaldur
Last year, Doomed & Stoned published a compilation focused on two-piece bands. Of course, that 39-tracker just focused on the Latin American scene. Were we to widen our scope, I think you'd be surprised at how many duos there are around the world -- from well-known acts like Black Cobra to some of my favs: Swamp Ritual, Cave of Swimmers, and Hymn. Even more so that your preconceived notions will be shattered when it comes to imagining what just two band members can do when they bump heads together.
The latest case in point, Finland's DESOLATE REALM, formed by talented vocalist Matias Nastolin of Decaying and Altar of Betelgeuze (a band I've long championed, whose past singer Otu went on to form the mighty Kaiser) and fierce drummer Olli Törrönen Chalice and Decaying. The two are well-matched, with a large presence, bravura, and plenty of fire to melt what remians of winter.
Helsinki’s Desolate Realm, the press clippings tell us, "combine the epic grandeur of doom-metal acts like Candlemass and Solitude Aeturnus with classic heavy-metal of Savatage and Metal Church and the mighty groove of Black Sabbath -- with epic melodies and gripping, heavy riffs."
The hype is right. As I listened to their forthcoming full-length debut (follow-up to the 2020 EP Unleash The Storm), I found myself in full agreement. I've been blasting these eight songs over and again, and after repeated listens even found myself starting to sing along.
"This is doom-metal that leans on old-school and classic influences," the band says, "so you won’t find fuzz or psychedelic textures here, instead, the epic melodies, heavy riffs and belting vocals are the driving force of this album."
"Spire" is the opening number from 'Desolate Realm' (2021), out April 23rd (pre-order here). The vocals remind me so much of Morgoth, especially the Feel Sorry for the Fanatic era, when I first fell in love with the band. Right now, there aren't a lot of vocalists with this kind of heft, tone, and range, so Matias stands out entirely from the pack, especially in the doom metal scene -- as does Olli's full-bodied, red-blooded drumming.
While "Spire" is more up-tempo than many doomers have come to expect from "traditional doom," there is plenty to please fans of Grand Magus, The Gates of Slumber, and Solitude Aeturnus alike on the new record. All in all, Desolate Realm presents a fierce, but well-balanced record brimming with the spirit of trve metal and the icy atmosphere of the Finnish heavy music scene.
Give ear...
Desolate Realm - "Spire"
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