Sourvein - Aquatic Occult
T-Roy takes listeners through an engrossing underwater soundscape
Inspired by Sourvein frontman T-Roy's home environment of Cape Fear, NY, Aquatic Occult's underwater world makes for an engaging listen. Its aquatic motif seems to have been a constant inspiration to the writing process, and helps to create a sombre and mysterious atmosphere.
Throughout, Sourvein simply sound cool, with groovy doom metal riffs that sway in a way that reminds of waves and keeps the aquatic theme ever-present. This cool aura sticks, but moments of Aquatic Occult are still dark as hell. The sinister swirling guitar of 'Aquanaut', for example, fits its theme perfectly, creating a sense of a slow descent into the darkest depths of the ocean.
Typical genre identifiers like fuzzy guitars and sludgy tempos are inevitable, but copious inspirations brought in by numerous guests make Aquatic Occult more original - Lamb of God's Randy Blythe lends his iconic vocals to 'Ocypuss', whilst the lethargic simplicity of 'Bermuda Sundown' sees Aquatic Occult's murky tones combine with ex-Weedeater drummer Keith Kirkum's minimalist drumming.
With an inherently cool feel throughout, Aquatic Occult is a dark album that benefits from numerous guests and an immersive underwater backdrop.
8/10
Aquatic Occult is out April 8 via Metal Blade Records
