Roses For The Dead
(Vic Records)
76:48min
Doom Metal… total Doom Metal. LORDS OF THE STONE was a Doom Metal band from The Netherlands formed way back in 1992 and existed up until 1998. In that time they released just one album and a few demos. Those demos are compiled here. Although the production on them vary in sound values, all of them are of quite good quality and sound. Done in chronological order, the first demo of the band introduces us to a band that is influenced by CELTIC FROST and BLACK SABBATH and thus is the sound they do have. The vocals specially are the most Tom G. Warrior – esque I have heard in a while, yet they tend to be more “melodic”. I do find that their very first demo is the better sounding of the pack, and probably feature the most interesting songs. Sometimes the band tends to sound more like a Stoner Rock band that just plays pure Doom Metal, but in any form it works for them. Their second demo is in line with their first one, and although a couple of years passed by, their style is almost intact. The third demo has a rawer production, thus making them sound heavier, but in reality it just shows that the band is quite comfortable with their style. When they went to record their full length they decided to use less gruff vocals and added female vocals with singer Martine van Loon who also worked with THE GATHERING and ORPHANAGE. In fact that debut album “Nightflowers” is sure to please fans of “Mandyllion” and “Into The Pandemonium” as well, it is still quite heavy and atmospheric. The last demo, was released after this album, and it follows what was done in their debut album that oozes a quite 70s vibe. Fans of Doom Metal, this is definitely a version to look after, and maybe time to re-issue that album again. More band information you will find at: www.facebook.com/lords-of-the-stone-556606667865840, label contact: www.vicrecords.com
Julián “Evil Eye” Núñez