2023-05-11 07:00:17
(c) Michael Mahncke
The title of the first album by Moor There are a number of ways to understand current and former members of The Ocean, Sport, Tephra and rha. The Hamburgers recorded the record with the original line-up. Within a very short time, guitarist Ben Laging and woofer Christian Smukal received their cancer diagnosis, the bassist and co-founder succumbed to his battle with the asshole in 2022. Smukal wanted the band to continue, and so the newly formed quintet with Elinor Lüdde (Corecass) on drums and Ralph Ulrich (Kavrila) on bass is still active. „Heavy Heart“ is dedicated to Doom of a different kind.
“Tears From Acrid Smoke”, which is also the first video release, sums up the unique and fascinating approach of the Northern Lights. Yes, Doom takes matters into its own hands, but it is by no means in the classical realm. Of course, the connection with Sludge and Post Metal awakens memories of Neurosis, but you don’t bask in the larger than life, glistening shadow. Between majestically marching drums, cutting guitars and angry, pain-filled vocals, the result is a spectacular and desolate sound. The clear singing at the climax awakens false hope and comes across as mockery in the best sense of the word.
In the opening “Heavy Heart”, Ercüment Kasalar explodes with vocal vehemence right at the beginning and moves in media res. The heavy gait, the leaden presentation, the unfiltered anger, the puristic intensity, the sluggish demeanor – what belongs together comes together here, skillfully staged by manic melodic approaches (there aren’t more than approaches on this record). The closing “Breath Like Nails” shoots past the nine-minute mark with growing enthusiasm. In fact, the heartbreaking leitmotif brings Doomy intensity with it, but increasing alienation, harsh slow-motion presentation and leisurely stirred cauldrons ensure cheap madness that, with growing enthusiasm, lets hearing and seeing pass by.
The skilful implosion of soul life drives this exciting debut. What Moor present here goes to the substance and expands on what commonly runs under Doom – certainly a bit familiar and yet always with a clear own handwriting. “Heavy Heart” lives up to its name, stirring up and looking for a form of catharsis that fails to materialize. What a legacy, but at the same time hopefully also a clear sign that things are going to continue, because Moor make a great debut.
Rating: 8/10
Available from: 05/17/2023
Available from: Blood Blast Distribution
Facebook: www.facebook.com/moormetal
Category: Magazin, Reviews
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#Moor #Heavy #Heart
