The frozen land of Finland often times gives birth to Symphonic, Power, and Melodic Death bands.  This time, however, it has given birth to a doom metal/rock band named CHURCH OF VOID, who present to our ears their first full length, a self-titled collection of one intro and six Doom tracks. "Passing The Watchtower," the first full track, opens with Warlock's catchy bass and the fuzzy riffs of A.D. and G. Funeral.  This track, as does the whole album, does have a more rock and roll feel to it compared to most other doom bands.  This track reminds me a lot of FU MANCHU, with its vaguely 70's hard rock sound mixed with some slight stoner undertones.  The solo about halfway through the song really echoes these statements.

"Harlot's Dream," has a really nice groove that drives the song and some great drumming, especially with the cymbals.  Byron V is very playful for a drummer in this genre and he really gives the band a nice, full sound.  Magu's vocals are a deep, Gothic croon, not unlike Peter Steele from TYP O NEGATIVE.  His vocals would sound right at home in a more dark doom band like MY DYING BRIDE but they still work with the rock feel of the band. The fifth track, "Lovecraft," is quite the surprise.  The bass and catchy drums really bring out some shocking 80's style rock pop rhythm.  The more upbeat rhythm is still wrapped in that hazy, fuzzy sound with the trippy guitar solos and deep vocals; the song definitely combines several styles and it works pretty well for the most part. Around the three minute mark or so the song seems to end but continues on in a sudden acoustic "breakdown", completely with some beautiful lead work.

The last track, "World Eater," is a highlight because it's filled with several passages of jamming.  This song has everything you could want musically: groove, killer instrumentation, thick riffs and some excellent solos.  I didn't like some of the more filtered vocal passages or the extra layer of fuzz added after the four minute mark; I found them to be a distraction that took away from the atmosphere. Indeed, the album definitely leans more towards a rock than metal feel.  There isn't anything wrong with that but if you are looking for doom that is slower, darker, richer, and heavier than you might want to look elsewhere.  However, for those new to the genre and looking for a sound to wade their feet in before taking the deep dive, this album will work fine.