Crank this to 8.4 of 11
Released: 2018
Genre: Doom
Sounds Like: Agalloch, My Dying Bride
We have been on the prowl for some unique atmospheric doom. Blood Folke hailing form St. Paul Minnesota quenched our thirst with a folking solid third release. A step above their previous releases as this one holds fast to their picturesque landscape of mellow darkness and goth undertones. Terrific folking production catapults this diverse 34 minute blend of dramatic doom. Lauren’s string prowess on the viola is the perfect differentiator asIII paints a rich landscape. The vocals are troubling at points and really hold this one back from an Editor’s pick unfortunately. Vocalist, Dan Wieken is at his folking best when he kicks it up a notch and gets out of the slow goth mode. Check out the 6:27 mark on the opener "Frost". He cranks it up a bit as cries of angst disguise the sometimes off-key drone. Further on "Vulture" Dan impresses with some heavier gritty vocals.
Track Listing:
1. Frost (7:25)
2. Occult (7:42)
3. Tighten the Reigns (6:59)
4. Vulture (12:08)
Standout Tracks:
"Tighten the Reigns" kicks folking ass. Lauren’s strings shine and Dan does a stellar job with the fretwork. Great contrast and energy on this track. The build-up towards the 6 minute will fire you up for sure. We are not going to lie to you….Dan’s vocal break on this one helps as well. ‘Vulture’ is not far behind with its epic contrast and attention to detail.
Adult Beverage Pairing:
Three Hour Tour (6.1%) ABV from Minneapolis Town Hall Brewery delivers a wonderful coconut Milk Stout. Lighter bodied and silky smooth along with rich chocolate overtones.
ROTATION RECAP:
Weight of the Heavy
8.5
Fretwork Prowess
8.6 out of 11
Captivation and Variety
9.2 out of 11
Vocal Performance
6 out of 11
Overall Album Flow
8.8 out of 11
Contrast
8.5 out of 11
Album Cover Aesthetics
8.6 out of 11
Production Value
8.4 out of 11
Lasting Impression:
We encourage you to give this one a few rotations. The texture and thought put into this album is unique. The last two tracks steal the show for us, they are incredible and well worth your time. Give this one a gander and throw it in heavy rotation.
Band Members:
Joe Krawetz - bass
Lauren Gaffney - viola
Bryan Pierson - drums
Dan Wieken - guitar vocals