Release date: May 7th 2021. Label: Self Released. Format: DD
Arctic Noise – Tracklisting
Megaliths Of Echo
Ancient Ruin
Arctic Noise
Review
I was wondering recently when Ape Vermin would be making an appearance after listening to their 2018 release Sonic Monolith more and more. Well the guys have return with this mighty fine slab of Progressive Sludge, Doom and Stoner Metal. Still continuing with the heavy sounds first heard on their debut release, this time the band are more focused on Arctic Noise.
The 17:27 minute opening track Megaliths Of Echo takes influence from heavy hitters such as SLEEP, CONAN, High On Fire and Mastodon but with Ape Vermin injecting a heavier pre-historic influence compared to their debut album. This album starts slowly with heavy DOOMED OUT grooves before an ice cold and almost THRASH atmospheric sound appears. The sound is quite dense and superbly progressive with the band adapting to their “new” style of music. The vocals remind myself of High On Fire and Mastodon style growls and I’m fully on board wit that. With this song being on for such an epic time, Ape Vermin have a lot of ground to cover and they succeed on all levels, especially on the Psychedelic and trippier parts of the song.
Second song – Ancient Ruin – runs for around 5:30 minutes and the band carry on their cinematic blend of Sludge, Doom and Stoner Metal grooves but with a leaner Psychedelic drive from the band. The vocals are more “chant” based for this song and the music is played slow-paced before the faster riffs appear towards the middle of the song. Ape Vermin write some “out-there” lyrics for this song and it all builds up to a thrilling conclusion.
Third song – Arctic Noise – is perhaps the song that will become a “fan favourite” for people who listen to this EP. As it’s a brilliantly written song that allows Ape Vermin to continue with their fantastical tale of prehistoric monsters all told through the power of heavy music. The song moves effortessly from one style of Doom, Sludge and Stoner Metal but keeping in the realm of Psychedelic Metal and Prog Metal.
Arctic Noise is a superbly produced record with Ape Vermin once again on fine form. The record sees the band try and succeed at many different things on this record. It may have taken some time for the band to return but it’s great to have them back and wreaking havoc along the way.
Awesome stuff…..
Words by Steve Howe
Thanks to Sheltered Life PR for the promo. Arctic Noise will be available to buy on DD from May 7th 2021
