Doom and sludge metal have long been a pairing that’s much like black and death metal or even psychedelia and rock: unforgettable and too enjoyable to let die. Many bands have tried the combination ever since the first experimentation much to varying degrees of success from all sorts of acts. Oryx seemed to have finished their adventures a few years ago, but eventually resurrected and even survived the departure of their bassist. Such a thing isn’t easy for a band, but returning with their first piece since two years back, Oryx shows they’re ready to dominate once again, and this album is the perfect vessel for such a message.

A massive wall of sludge that’s spiced up with the monolithic attitudes of doom metal is the sort of thing that isn’t for everyone, for sure, but it’s the thrill of overcoming such a harsh environment creating by such music that makes it so fucking delicious! With their brand new effort, “Stolen Absolution”, this Coloradan duo presents us with a sound that’s no less than absolutely destructive! These eight down-tuned tracks are the sort of thing that draws people to the realm of sludgy doom to begin with, and Oryx is a magnificent testament to that! Each passing track contains either a straight up wall of unrelenting energy mixed with strings of melody that pulls “Stolen Absolution” together incredibly well. And worry not, Oryx has enough mercy to allow for a very fitting interlude track that really gives the mind a much-needed reprieve before immediately throwing you into an even more vicious plane of death than before! Mixed with a slower tempo, crushing melodies laced throughout entrancing rhythms, and a monstrous presence that never once disappears, Oryx doesn’t disappoint a single bit with “Stolen Absolution” by any standard.

This sound has always had an essence of filth and nastiness about it that truly makes it a fan favorite in the world of metal, and it’s not likely to go away with bands like Oryx continuing to lead the charge. “Stolen Absolution” is a real treat for any fan of the genre, and it’s the sort of thing that I can see myself come crawling back to when I’m in the need of truly quality sludge filled doom.

LISTEN to “Stolen Absolution” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Oryx on Facebook here.