COMA HOLE is a Stoner/Doom Metal duo from southern Rhode Island. Ironically, their hometown is Westerly. COMA HOLE has been around since 2018 and released their first single for their self-titled debut EP in 2021. Fast-forward three years and their first full-length album, “Hand of Severance,” is due for release on November 1, 2024. It is a gritty, fuzz intensive ride with a stunning vocal performance by Eryka Fir (bass, vocals).

“Hand of Severance” comprises six tracks and has a runtime of about 34 minutes. It is a mid- to low-tempo affair, light on the guitar mix heavy on bass. Vocals are all clean. With the recent controversy of AI infiltrating the Metal scene, it was refreshing to listen to this raw, clearly homespun rocker. COMA HOLE is that quintessential underground band that metalheads love to throw on the turntable and have the room go abuzz with questions . . .

Who is this? COMA HOLE.

When did they come out? Circa 2018.

What label are they on? Independent but promoted by C-Squared Marketing.

Where can I get their shit? Bandcamp.

Where can I see them? Uhm. Maybe the Eastern seaboard somewhere. Don’t know. Check their social media feed. What am I, fucking Ticketmaster?

Storm out of the room or flip a table.

But to the point, “Hand of Severance” is both raw and relentless, the way Metal should be. No interludes or acoustic moments except for about the last minute of the last track which feels more like a poetic flourish than a statement. Thematically, the album is an “intense journey that explores the emotional and psychological effects of the outside world on an individual’s mental state. With themes of self-destruction and introspection, the album delves into the struggle of confronting destructive behaviors and the process of coming to terms with them.”

There are a lot of standout tracks on this album. My go to selection includes “Alphaholics,” an early single from the album about male toxicity and its perverted magnetism; “Luster” with more mean streaks than your ex on payday; and “Nooses,” a rollercoaster of a track and the closing number.

COMA HOLE is reminiscent of HEAVY TEMPLE and RUBY THE HATCHET and carries on the great tradition of Northeastern Stoner/Doom bands. “Hand of Severance” is a solid debut full-length from this duo. I’m curious if they will expand their lineup as well as their sonic space as they progress, but in the meantime this album is a strong offering.