DAMNATION’S HAMMER – Into The Silent Nebula

When it comes to Metal music, there’s no shortage of subgenres and bands trying to carve their niche within this vast and diverse realm. Among them, Damnation’s Hammer, is a band that has managed to catch the attention of metalheads with their unique blend of heavy and doom metal elements. Their new album, Into the Silent Nebula, is a striking release that offers a refreshing departure from the norms of traditional Metal. While the music is undeniably good, there’s a bit of an adjustment period when it comes to the vocals, particularly if you’re accustomed to more conventional Heavy or Death Metal styles. You don’t get the normal guttural growls or screams; Tim Preston’s voice is more akin to the voices you’d hear from early 90s Metal.

Let’s dive into what makes Into the Silent Nebula such an intriguing addition to the Metal landscape. First and foremost, the music itself is undeniably strong. The band’s instrumental prowess shines through with precision and power. They’ve managed to create a sound that is slower than your average Metal but not quite fitting into the traditional Doom Metal category. It’s more accurate to describe it as a Sludgy, Heavy Metal experience. The album is filled with crushing riffs, thunderous drumming, and an overall atmosphere that exudes a sense of impending doom.

However, it’s the vocals that might require a bit of patience for listeners who are more inclined towards the classic Heavy or Death Metal vocal styles. Tim Preston delivers a unique and somewhat unconventional sound when he sings. I would characterize the vocals as a gritty, raspy quality that might take some time to grow accustomed to. While the vocals might take some time to grow on you, they do eventually find their place within the overall sound created by the band.

One of the intriguing aspects of Into the Silent Nebula, is its genre classification as Heavy/Doom Metal. While there are undoubtedly elements of heaviness and a slower tempo throughout the record, it’s important to note that this is not your typical Doom Metal offering. It’s slower than what you’d expect from traditional Heavy Metal, even bordering on sludgy at times, but it lacks the typical melancholic and mournful characteristics that define Doom Metal. Instead, Damnation’s Hammer creates a unique blend that carves its path within the broader Metal spectrum.

One standout track that exemplifies this amalgamation of Heavy and Doom elements is “The Silent Nebula.” The song features a slow, ominous build-up that eventually explodes into a massive wall of sound, driven by thundering drums and crushing riffs. This song is an instrumental song, but it might be the best song on the entire album. It also features Sakis Tolis (Rotting Christ) on the guitar.

Another highlight is “The Moon and The Waters of Death.” Here, Damnation’s Hammer showcases their ability to create a sense of impending darkness through their music. The slow and deliberate pacing, coupled with the eerie guitar work, transports the listener to a grim and desolate landscape. It’s a track that encapsulates the band’s unique approach to Metal.

Overall

In conclusion, Damnation’s Hammer’s Into the Silent Nebula, is a compelling release that defies easy categorization. While it may be slotted as a Doom Metal record, it’s clear that the band isn’t content with conforming to genre norms. The music is undeniably powerful, with crushing instrumentals that establish a heavy and dark atmosphere. However, it’s the unconventional vocals that might pose a challenge for listeners initially. Nevertheless, with time, the vocals do grow on you and eventually find their place within the band’s latest offering. If you’re looking for something that strays from the beaten path of traditional Metal, Into the Silent Nebula is a worthy journey into uncharted territory. It’s also worth mentioning that Fenriz (Darkthrone) and Aaron Stainthorpe (My Dying Bride) lend their talents on this album as well.

Band Lineup

Tim Preston – Vocals, Rhythm Guitar
Ady Farnell – Lead Guitar
Jamie Fowler – Bass
Gary Bevan – Drums

Tracklisting

1. Sutter Cane – feat. Aaron Stainthorpe (My Dying Bride)
2. Do Not Disturb The Watchmaker
3. Outpost 31 – feat. Fenriz (Darkthrone)
4. Into The Silent Nebula
5. The Silent Nebula – feat. Sakis Tolis (Rotting Christ)
6. The Call Of The Void
7. The Hex iv
8. The Moon And The Waters Of Death