Solemn Ceremony is a doom metal band from Australia, who formed in 2017. It’s actually a one-man project, from musician Phil Howell (also in Caprahed & Zlortcht). His latest album under this moniker is “Chapter III” which is, obviously, the third full-length album; there has also been a demo, EP, and a split.
Solemn Ceremony plays a brand of doom that is traditional in nature and, when the need arises, melodic. With that being said, it has more than enough thick riffage and a powerful rhythm section.
Musically, nothing here is extreme but it rocks pretty damn hard for what it is and is a lot heavier than a lot of other traditional doom bands. Vocally, Phil’s voice is clean but very gritty, often ending sentences with something close to a growl. I find his style very fitting for the music, which is more gritty and rough than a lot of traditional doom.
The production matches that raw power; it isn't often I heard music of this style with such an abrasive production but it works with the music.
The opening song, “They Rule The Night,” showcases how well the songs can translate from melodic flourishes to groove laden doom riffs.
The song, and this is indicative of the album as a whole, is catchy and offers a lot of infectious energy.
The title track shows the dirge-y style of the album; with the tempo pulled back, the song is given breathing room for the bass in particular to stand out among the dirt and grime.
The vocals and drums keep the song planted firmly on the heavier side of the grass, often times working in tandem for a two pronged attack that raises the melodies and harmonies to new heights.
The band is at their best when they use their moody melody to build up their more intense side. “The King of Slaves,” begins with melonhclic riffs that grow in shapes as the song moves towards a faster tempo in the later half.
A cacophony of raucous drums and vicious vocals cuts through the final moments of the song while solos rip through.
The final track “Unholy Fate,” is the darkest song on the album and even sounds a bit Gothic in places. The song is a slow crush but after a little break in the form of drumming, the song descends into the depths. From here it gets really bleak and dangerous.
Solemn Ceremony’s “Chapter III” is a surprisingly raw traditional doom metal album with a dark, graven image which emanates from its bleak but huge sound.
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