With their latest release, “Monarch,” Irish quartet Raum Kingdom delivers a mesmerizing and immersive experience in the realm of post-metal sludge. Bursting with emotive melodies, atmospheric textures, and hypnotizing compositions, this album showcases the band’s growth and evolution, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the genre.
Formed in 2013, Raum Kingdom embarked on a mission to create a sonic landscape that would leave a lasting impact. Comprising vocalist Dave Lee, guitarist Andrew Colohan, bassist Ronan Connor, and drummer Mark Gilchrist, the band’s chemistry and shared vision were immediately apparent. Their collective passion for heavy music, combined with their desire to explore new sonic territories, propelled them to channel their energy into their self-titled EP, released in 2014.
With “Monarch,” Raum Kingdom pushes their sonic boundaries even further, delving into deeper emotional depths. Each track on the album is a sonic journey that captures the listener’s attention from the outset. The band’s ability to craft intricate melodies and layer atmospheric textures creates an immersive experience that evokes a range of emotions.
The album seamlessly blends moments of crushing heaviness with introspective, melodic passages. Raum Kingdom demonstrates a keen understanding of dynamics, effectively building tension and releasing it with powerful climaxes. The juxtaposition of harsh and clean vocals adds an extra layer of depth to the music, enhancing its emotional impact.
One notable aspect of “Monarch” is the band’s ability to create a captivating atmosphere. The songs are richly textured, with layers of sound that draw the listener deeper into the music. Raum Kingdom employs a careful balance of heavy, distorted guitars and ethereal, ambient elements, resulting in a sonic landscape that feels both crushing and expansive.
Standout tracks such as Red Admiral or Gatekeeper exemplify Raum Kingdom’s prowess in crafting immersive musical experiences. These compositions showcase the band’s ability to seamlessly transition between moments of intense aggression and introspective introspection, keeping the listener engaged throughout the album’s duration.
The production on “Monarch” deserves commendation as well. The album strikes a perfect balance between rawness and clarity, allowing the instrumentation to shine through while maintaining the raw energy that characterizes the genre. The mix is well-balanced, ensuring that each instrument has its rightful place in the sonic palette.
In conclusion, “Monarch” is a testament to Raum Kingdom’s growth and maturity as a band. With this release, they have crafted an album that captivates with its emotive melodies, atmospheric textures, and hypnotizing compositions. Their ability to create a sonic journey that resonates deeply with the listener is a testament to their skill as musicians and storytellers. “Monarch” solidifies Raum Kingdom’s place in the post-metal sludge genre, and it is a captivating release that demands attention from fans of heavy, immersive music.
Follow Raum Kingdom on Facebook
Released by ARGONAUTA Records on January 27th, 2023
Music source for review – Grand Sounds PR
