Hailing from Denmark, The Manipulated are an Instrumental Sludge Band and this is their second release.
Well, I must admit that the album cover immediately puts me off this release. I mean, who wouldn’t be put off by that? But let’s persevere and see what lies within, as ultimately it’s only the music that matters.
It’s immediately apparent that the music is well worth the listen, as interesting and crushing Doom riffs come falling out of the speakers. The music they create is rich and textured in the gloomy-but-devastating arts.
Whether slow and miserable or upbeat and despondent, The Manipulated create an aural tapestry of doubt, wretchedness and recrimination. It’s effective and noteworthy.
The band combine noise and trumpet into their Sludge assault to add extra layers of filth and intrigue into their dismal sound.
It’s not all crushing Doom and Sludge however, as there are plenty of lighter moments too, although these are just as dark as the heavier ones. This aspect of their sound shows a Post-Metal influence and is reminiscent of bands like Isis, only with more shadows and places to hide.
The Manipulated have produced a very enjoyable and solid piece of work with Neon Messiah. It’s bleak and unforgiving but that only adds to its charm in my book.
This is the soundtrack for the malcontent.
Wonderbox Metal 