ALBUM REVIEW: Zaum - "Eidolon"

By: Charlie Butler

Album Type: Full Length
Date Released: 24/10/2016
Label: I Hate Records

“What makes Zaum’s music so intoxicating is the sheer density of their sound. Layers of synths, sitars, flutes and who knows what else, build up to create a foundation of all-encompassing drone for the bands epic compositions.  Prepare to be transported to a higher realm.”

 

“Eidolon” CD//DD//LP track listing:

1). Influence of the Magi

2). The Enlightenment

The Review:

“Eidolon” is a term from ancient Greek literature that refers to a spirit-image of a living or dead person. It is an appropriate title for Zaum’s new album given the ageless, haunted soundscapes contained within.

Few bands can touch the New Brunswickdoom duo in terms of sheer hypnotic atmosphere. “Eidolon” sees them raise their game once more with two 20 minute behemoths, “Influence of the Magi” and “The Enlightenment” that build on their impressive previous releases. Imagine the relentless riff onslaught of Om circa “Conference of the Birds” combined with the wider sonic palette of their later work and blown up to symphonic scale. This will give you a good impression of Zaum’smind-expanding, heavy grandeur.

What makes Zaum’smusic so intoxicating is the sheer density of their sound. Layers of synths, sitars, flutes and who knows what else, build up to create a foundation of all-encompassing drone for the bands epic compositions. Chris Lewis’ drumming provides a solid backbone for these mammoth voyages into the beyond but Kyle McDonald’s bass is the key ingredient to Zaum’s success. From spacious, ghostly chords to crushing distorted riffs, he utilises an arsenal of effects to give the impression of the band being a mighty legion rather than a mere duo. There is a wide spectrum of vocals on display here too, switching from spectral chants to throaty roars and everything in between to meet the demands of these complex journeys.

“Eidolon” is another transcendent release from Zaumthat sees them go further down their singular path into the heavy unknown. Prepare to be transported to a higher realm.

“Eidolon” is available here

Band info: bandcamp || facebook

FFO: Om, Bong, Sleep, Earth