C R O W N are a duo from France who I first heard of last year when the released the excellent The One EP. They've recently signed with Candlelight Records to release their debut full length.
So here it is Psychurgy, ten tracks of intense industrial tinged sludge. And its a gargantuan release. Building on what they've done on The One and a split with STValley, C R O W N make an impression with their debut. Their sound is hard to pin down, but elements of Godflesh and even ISIS merge with more sludge infested metal. It makes for a thick enveloping sound that invites you to listen without distraction. From the opening ambience and abrasive soundscape of 'Kynesyk I' you know this will be a journey. First proper song 'Abyss' combines industrial rhythm with shimmering electronics and dark toned vocals. A looping riff echoes around the track until it shifts into heavier territory.
C R O W N possess a habit of finding a rhythm and synch into it. There's a lot going on at times but seemingly all with the purpose of flooring you with power. 'Blood Runs' is a glorious 8 minutes work out with riffs oozing out over the programmed drum patterns. With more ambient textures and shifts in dynamics its one of many highlights on Pyschurgy. The overpowering guitars around three minutes in are awe inspiring stuff, and again it locks into a tight groove.
I have to say in general I'm not a huge fan normally of groups who don't have a "live drummer". Of course it's not always the case and is possibly short sighted to even highlight it. However C R O W N, create such emotional and captivating music it actually adds to the appeal. Countering the sludge filled riffs and at times harsh vocals, the military-like press ion of the rhythm helps with the overall feel.
Psychurgy is an album to lose yourself in, with tracks at times running to 8 plus minutes. There is plenty of variation as well, from the bass driven 'Empress_Hierophant' to the fury and relentlessness of the opening of 'Alpha_Omega' which spirals out as the album closes.
At times oppressive, with thick riffs, there's also an element of experimental unpredictability. C R O W N have created an album that will ensure their name is one we will be hearing much more of.
