Minsk - The Ritual Fires of Abandonment (2007)^{Release ID: 8398}

After a long hiatus of my Sludge/Post-Metal venture I just listened to this in some free time. It's good. It's not great, but this actually has more to it. The influences here are all over the place in a good way, starting with a ritualistic drumming tones that I was kind of excited with the name of the album I was expecting more of that. There's hints throughout, but never goes full tribal or similar sound. The guitar work is intriguing and the extra instruments are always a good thing for me. Never enough sax. The "sludge" elements are do here and it drags down the album for me like usual. The really cool riffs and atmosphere are the best part and when I focus on that I get the enjoyment but elsewhere it's a bit forgettable. There's probably even lyrically a concept here that I tried to follow along with but the sludge lost me, though the vocals are still good but gets lost in the mix for me. Entirely a me thing once again for this style, I appreciate the instrumental melodies and talent here and this is one that wasn't as difficult to get through by any means but not something I will be going back to. If you like the style, this is one I would recommend if asked.

I can't believe I had never heard of these guys before checking this record out 8-9 years ago now. This album is a thoroughly captivating & seriously heavy example of atmospheric & psychedelic sludge metal similar to material from Italy's Ufomammut. Many of the tracks start out quite chilled & build to huge crescendos & walls of noise. They slowly drag you in until you find yourself jumping around in a rage of excitement. The tribal element in the drumming is brilliant & reminds me of Neurosis at times.  This is certainly not for the faint-hearted or those with little patience. But if you are into a more cerebral style of heavy music then these guys will be right up your alley. Listen to this loud!