When we look at the very state of what progressive black metal brings to the table in its current climate, it’s both fascinating and underwhelming. Fascinating because it truly expands upon what’s possible within the wide realm of black metal and underwhelming because it really does feel as though there’s so much untapped potential to be had simply because not many tackle the sounds s much as they should despite the obvious notions for real glory that are always ripe for the taking. Slowly, more names have been coming out of the woodwork to deliver exceptional creations that are always standout efforts of their time, and that has never been more true than with the first full-length album from Tómarúm.

Dealing with a sound like this where it really does feel like there are no limitations other than the raw imagination of the band at hand and its capability to bring it to life sufficiently, the world truly is the oyster of any band that manages to tower over its competition in such form and with the right kind of power to sweep them and listeners. Sporting a cover from one of the greatest artists of our time, Tómarúm already knew what they were doing before they even penned “Ash in Realms of Stone Icons”, but it’s in every possible way that this is the band’s biggest step forward with virtually every aspect of the album the exact sort of glory that will earn it many spots on the end-year lists of many people to come. The very nature of this expansive creation of its diversity in heaviness, dense atmospheres, macabre beauty, and unyielding energy instantly set apart the seven tracks as a work that is all but uncompromising right unto the very final notes. Effortlessly, this is one of those efforts that demands to be heard by anyone who considers themselves even a mild fan of what the modern underground is able to create in the best of circumstances with “Ash in Realms of Stone Icons” all but mandatory in that regard. It’s the sort of record that I can only try to put into words in order to convey its grandeur and magnificence in some form, but it’s despite my best efforts that I can only beg you to investigate this creation for what it is rather than take my hopeless words for it.

Tómarúm has crafted something truly exceptional here, and I refuse to let it go by unheralded even if my words are unfit to wholly encapsulate its wonders. There is no doubt that this wild ride will find itself among the favorites of many throughout the underground for all the right reasons, and it’s all but obvious to look upon all that was summoned forth with “Ash in Realms of Stone Icons” and fathom the stunning glory that Tómarúm will find itself in should it simply stay the course. If it does, we’re in for quite a ride.

LISTEN to “Ash in Realms of Stone Icons” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Tómarúm on Facebook here.