Bathypelagic are a duo based in Seattle, and their debut release Lahar is an epic twenty four minute track that plays out like a sonic dystopian odyssey. It packs so much emotion and catharsis in its duration, that it feels like more of an EP or an album in the best possible way, whilst you are immersing yourself in it.
Bathypelagic consist of bassist/vocalist/synth player Tanya (formerly of brilliant UK doom/sludge band Bismuth and many other cracking underground bands) and drummer/vocalist Ryan and they certainly make an impact on this debut release.
An ethereal and dreamlike beginning soon builds into something more sinister, with a droning bass sound taking a commanding hold of proceedings, resulting in a proceeding vibe of dread continuing to take hold as the track continues.
There is an unsettling nature that builds and builds while remaining totally captivating before the track takes a different turn as the black metal-esque vocals kick in and things get more and more doom laden, and it sounds incredible.
The energy levels then take the roof off as the music takes a faster turn into an almost crust punk style and shows the depth and eclecticism of the music of Bathypelagic, before sampled voices drift in and out of the soundscape, adding to the overall vibe of this track.
From there on, the music, while remaining utterly devastating, takes an uplifting turn while that heaviness continues to hold a powerful premise, and as Lahar concludes with another burst of ferocity that fades into a buzz of noise, you are left dazed with what you have just experienced.
Bathypelagic have made a crushing start to their recorded output and this is a band with a bright future amongst the darkness, and hopefully while have more new music forthcoming in the near future.
