From Bandcamp, “FUNERAL, hailing from the icy landscapes of Norway, stands solemn as stalwart guardians of the funeral doom metal genre. With roots intertwining the sorrow of a wake and the heaviness of bowed boughs bearing winter's weight, their music is a vessel of mourning and memory. In the heartrending depths of “Gospel of Bones,” we bear witness to a journey of grief, a map drawn in melancholic melodies and the relentless dirge of funeral drums. Each song is a requiem, a story etched into the annals of the night. This album is FUNERAL's sovereign claim to the throne of despair.”

“Too Young to Die” is the first cut. Solemn strings and church bells open the song, followed by a hardened riff and clean, controlled vocals. The sound is colder than the frozen tundra north of Antarctica. “Yesteryear” reminds me of an old man, facing inevitable death, reminiscing of what his life used to be like decades ago. When you look back in your life, will you have any regrets? “Procession of Misery” is just that…a thick, magnanimous sound that marches forward, each step putting another nail into your coffin, and it’s supported by symphonic elements. “Ailo’s Lullaby” is a short, pensive song, giving the listener a little pause to think, and contemplate whatever they haven’t been able to get past.

“My Own Grave” is heavy on the strings, and I have always felt that these instruments can carry the saddest of sounds. The varied vocals style also has some soft melodies within, but this song can really make someone feel dejected. “To Break all Hearts of Men” has a crushing entrance from a very weighted riff. However, the vocals have a good deal of emotion to them, as do the backing strings. “Når Kisten Senkes” is a very sad song, with vocals that drip with laments. “Three Dead Men” closes the album. The vocals are harmonized with male and female parts, and strings back them with despair, and despondence. Do not look for absolution or affirmation on this album, for it is forbidden. In my opinion, the album is designed to have the listener look within, and you might not like what you see.