Leonov

WAKE

FYSISK FORMAT MYSTIC, MERCURIAL DOOM FROM THE OSLO SHADOWS Leonov’s sound is an ethereal journey into the heart of darkness and the second full-length from this Norwegian quintet is a masterclass in elemental doom. Resonating guitars snake their way through rich drums and Tåran Reindal’s smoky voice curls around the

majestic Eucharist. It’s sensual but not provocative, instead bringing images of hazy nights and rituals to the fore. Shem showcases simple structures and clear, heartfelt vocals that strike a deep chord, giving the band the opportunity to step back from the weight of what came before. However, despite running at a reasonable 43 minutes, Wake does suffer from feeling longer due to a lack of variation in the songs. It’s a pitfall they strive to overcome in the post-rock cascades of Oceanode and the heavier tones of album opener

I Am Lion, I Am Yours.

FOR FANS OF: TRUE WIDOW, CHELSEA WOLFE, SINISTRO

CHERYL CARTER