Tribunal are a Gothic doom metal band from Canada and this is their second album.
Tribunal’s debut record The Weight of Remembrance was a notable release from 2023, so a new album from the band carries the freshly acquired weight of expectation. Fear not though, as across 48 minutes In Penitence and Ruin does not disappoint.
In Penitence and Ruin is an evocative work of old-school Gothic doom metal. Firmly crafted by artisans using only the highest quality materials, it’s a record of depth and substance.
Now fleshed out as a full band, Tribunal have let their ambitions flourish into something superior to their well-received debut record. When compared to The Weight of Remembrance, In Penitence and Ruin is Tribunal taken up a level. The base foundation is essentially the same, but the band have built upon it stronger and more beautifully. It dives deeper into the Gothic night, and offers the listener a darker, more ornate and expanse vision for doom metal. The record’s production values do the music justice too, showing the requisite improvement. In every way, Tribunal sound great.
The songs are layered and emotive, with Tribunal weaving together a textured tapestry of sounds. The band combine atmospheric presence and memorable hooks to produce a collection of tracks that are extremely enjoyable. It’s a classic doom recipe, and tastes both satisfying and moreish. Tribunal know what they are doing with this style, whether it’s the beauty and the beast vocals, the expressive use of cello, the keyboard accents, the sorrowful doom riffs, or anything else here. The ingredients may be old, but they haven’t gone stale. Tribunal breathe life into a style that’s well-worn, delivering songs rich in feeling and atmospheric weight.
Tribunal have built upon their early promise to deliver a record that’s sure to make a mark in 2025’s crowded musical landscape. In Penitence and Ruin is an extremely strong album, one that you won’t want to miss if you have a taste for Gothic doom metal.
Wonderbox Metal 