This is the debut album from German post-blackened doom metal band Cosmic Void.
Subterranean Rivers contains 61 minutes of material that brings together black, doom, and post-metal influences into a compelling whole. For a starting point for what you can expect to encounter on Subterranean Rivers, imagine a combination of bands such as Cult of Luna, Enslaved, Minsk, Mizmor, Ruins of Beverast, and Amenra.
Post-blackened doom metal might be a bit of a mouthful, but you get the idea. You could rearrange the words into a different order, or add/remove different genre tags, but regardless of what you call it, Subterranean Rivers rigorously mixes its influences into an absorbingly holistic melting pot. Sometimes Cosmic Void lean more or less into one style or another depending on the needs of the music, but they always blend everything together well.
The music is well-written, with a clear understanding of how to structure and pace long-form compositions. Cosmic Void know how to layer and develop their songs, building feeling and atmosphere over time to craft dark soundscapes that are engaging and immersive. It’s mood-focused and atmospheric; whether being calm and introspective, raging and angular, brooding with expressive heaviness, or anything else, Subterranean Rivers takes the listener on a journey into well-realised worldbuilding. Rough harsh vocals – sometimes more blackened, sometimes more deathly – are the primary mode of delivery, although occasionally clean singing appears too, adding extra flavour to an already tasty recipe. Both are well-performed, with the cleans especially standing strong.
The album is textured and heavy, showcasing Cosmic Void’s skill at combining their influences into a cohesive whole. The doom and black metal elements are brought together into a post-metal framework that draws its strengths together competently. Subterranean Rivers is well-rounded, allowing the listener to explore and experience a range of paces, moods, feelings, light/heavy layers, psychedelic depths, and multifaceted sonic expressions.
Subterranean Rivers is an accomplished release that offers a broad experience for the listener to immersive themselves in. Cosmic Void’s understanding of how to build, develop, and sustain this sort of music is at a high level, and this is a record that’s worthy of savouring and getting to know over time.
Highly recommended.
Wonderbox Metal 