This is the debut album from US doom band Guiltless.
Following on from last year’s enjoyable debut EP Thorns, it’s time to see what Guiltless are capable of across a full length. Brought to us by current/ex-members of Intronaut, Generation of Vipers, Battle of Mice, A Storm of Light, IIVII, and Neurosis, the 43-minute Teeth to Sky is no disappointment.
Guiltless’ mix of sludge, doom, and post-metal is an effective and enjoyable one, but also one that makes me very nostalgic for the past. Musically it’s a product of the 90s and 00s in many ways, and would have fit perfectly into the wider heavy music environment back then. In 2025 it takes a less prominent spot, but a no less important one. I suppose in essence, musical tastes, trends, and styles may fluctuate over time, but an album of a calibre and character such as Teeth to Sky is timeless.
On the surface of it this sort of sludge metal is relatively straightforward in its construction and delivery, but in the hands of veterans such as these, it is simply executed better than most. Teeth to Sky is a rhythmic expression of apocalyptic heaviness. It opens up the Guiltless sound further than what we encountered on Thorns, allowing them to fully express their introspective brand of crushing heaviness.
The album is densely percussive, which works in concert with the rich distortion and charismatic vocals to become something greater than the sum of its parts. Melody is used as an accent, and atmosphere a weapon to oppress with its existential weight. The sludgy riffs are pummelling, and the doom workouts immense. It all coalesces into a formidable proposition.
Teeth to Sky is an album that grows in power over time. As you get to know its edges, depths, shapes, and feel, you get pulled into its orbit. Guiltless’ debut record is one to spend some quality time with, soaking up its twin sense of despair and expectation.
Wonderbox Metal 