On November 15, the Italian Stoner Metal trio, VEUVE, released their third full-length studio album, simply titled “Pole.” I should say that VEUVE claims the Stoner subgenre not just through their musical style—which is somewhere between ALL THEM WITCHES and HOWLING GIANT—but also thematically as they veer heavily to the hallowed sci-fi/fantasy side of the spectrum. So maybe more HOWLING GIANT and SERGEANT THUNDERHOOOF. Comparisons, though, are not needed. VEUVE is a phenomenal band all on their own and with “Pole” they solidify the fact.   

In the band’s words, the album “follows a journey across the four elements to the North, where humanity embarks on a mission to free ancient creatures imprisoned in ice since the dawn of time. These beings are the guardians of human emotions, and their release will bring a new light to the world." So, A+ on the storyline, though the twist of finding a world-saving wellspring of love, peace, and joy in the arctic region is a surprise. I guess the “White Vault” podcast and John Carpenter’s “The Thing” have ruined my image of artic regions.

There are several things to love about this album beyond the narrative, though. The songwriting and musical execution are both excellent. These are some complex tunes that explore a very wide soundscape—and not just for the sake of jamming, but rather to propel the story forward and to give it depth. I should also say that Riccardo Quattrin’s clean vocals also help. Not only is he a pleasure to listen to, but he has clear enunciation so you can actually understand what he’s saying. I mean, I appreciate harsh guttural vocals, but I also like not having to read lyric sheets. 

There are loads of great tracks on this album, though it really isn’t a singles type of record. Standout tracks for me include the opening track, “Land of Denial.” I especially like the nasty bass outbreak on this one. Again, Riccardo making his mark. Next on my list is “Inner Desert,” an earnest and heavy track. And finally, “The Sudden Light” which just goes everywhere. Musically this might be the most tightest track on the album. The final track, “Thrive on Empty Temples” is probably the most inventive track with forays into Prog and Jazz adjacent territories. 

“Pole” is one of those albums that somehow presents itself differently every time you listen to it. And if it strikes you like it did me, then you’ll be listening to it a lot. I’m not sure what led the band to depart from the Argonauta label but Go Down Records scored for the win when they signed VEUVE.