The Skull 3

Legions of Doom

LEGIONS OF DOOM have returned with their 2024 LP, "The Skull 3," a monumental offering from the Chicago, Illinois doom metal scene. This album showcases their mastery of modern doom metal, blending crushing riffs with hauntingly evocative vocals and impeccable production. Each track on this record feels thoughtfully crafted, with layers of emotion and intensity that pull the listener into a dark, atmospheric journey. The harmoniously performed vocals, are a highlight, adding a unique dimension to the slow, heavy soundscape.
October 22, 2024

The opening track, "Beyond The Shadow Of Doubt," sets the stage with a slow, crushing riff that crawls from the depths. The guitar work here is phenomenal, creating a dark and brooding atmosphere that immediately grabs your attention. The vocals soar above the instrumentals with a powerful yet melancholic tone, delivering lyrics that resonate with the soul. The production is pristine, with every note and nuance perfectly captured, allowing the song to breathe and expand into an almost tangible presence. This track is a grand opening to the album, steeping you in the profound weight of LEGIONS OF DOOM’s sound.

Next, "All Good Things" follows with a more introspective and haunting vibe. The guitars weave intricate melodies, balancing heaviness with delicate harmonics, as the song progresses through moments of both melancholy and power. The vocals take center stage here, carrying a raw emotional charge that contrasts beautifully with the song's measured pace. There is something deeply personal and reflective about this track, as it delves into themes of loss and despair. The song's ability to transition between sections of pure doom heaviness and melodic introspection is a testament to the band’s songwriting prowess.

"Lost Soul" stands out as one of the most theatrical and emotionally evocative tracks on the album. The vocal performance is particularly striking, bringing a sense of drama and depth to the composition. The delivery is hauntingly emotional, perfect for setting the mood of a Halloween ritual or a candlelit night of doom meditation. The song’s heavy, deliberate riffing is underscored by a deep sense of sorrow, with the guitars creating a swirling vortex of sound that carries the listener through the protagonist's journey of loss and longing. It’s a chilling piece, and the contrast between the somber verses and powerful chorus makes it one of the highlights of the album.

The next track, "A Voice Of Reason," opens with a wall of sound, hitting hard from the very first note. The powerful guitar riff drives the song with unwavering force, immediately capturing attention with its raw energy. There’s no subtle build-up here—just a full-on onslaught of heavy, doom-laden riffs that immerse you in the atmosphere. The vocals stand out once again, carrying both melody and intensity, feeling meditative yet forceful at the same time. The interplay between the crushing riffage and the commanding vocals creates a relentless momentum, with no need for quiet introspection—just pure, powerful doom from start to finish. The production is stellar, ensuring that every crushing note is felt to its fullest, amplifying the song's dense, immersive sound.

"Between Darkness And Dawn" carries a surreal, dreamlike quality that sets it apart. The track unfolds gradually, with each band member entering one by one, building a deeply immersive atmosphere. A mesmerizing bass riff leads the charge, smooth and entrancing, laying the foundation for the ethereal vocals to glide over. The voice is truly remarkable here, blending effortlessly with the instrumental layers, creating a hypnotic, oniric experience. The band's ability to craft such a well-developed, cohesive sound is evident, with every note meticulously placed. The song evokes a sense of being caught in a twilight zone, suspended between worlds, where time seems to blur. The surreal energy, combined with the smooth interplay between the instruments and voice, makes this a standout track—both captivating and otherworldly.

 

10 / 10

Masterpiece

Songwriting

10

Musicianship

10

Memorability

10

Production

10
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"The Skull 3" Track-listing:

1. Beyond the Shadow of Doubt
2. All Good Things
3. Lost Soul
4. A Voice of Reason
5. Between Darkness and Dawn
6. Insectiside
7. Heaven
8. Hallow by All Means

Legions of Doom Lineup:

Ron Holzner Bass
Henry Vasquez Drums
Lothar Keller Guitars
Scott Little Guitars
Karl Agell Vocals
Scott Reagers Vocals

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