There’s nothing that can compare to an absolute wall of sound. Whether it comes in the form of monolithic doom metal, a voraciously aggressive onslaught of death metal, or even an abstract pursuit of raw noise, it’s a concept that many have sought to ascertain with it simply not being often enough that we get a performance that embodies what it means to be such while also delivering a performance that can only be described as deeply evocative for all that it brings to the table besides an overwhelming sonic presence. Sludge and doom are the perfect breeding grounds for such magnificence, but it’s even then that exceptional cases are few and far between. With their first album, Pillar of Light makes a damn good case as to why they should already be hailed amongst such exalted company.

Presence and power mean nothing if they’re not brought forth with the proper substance and backbone to give it all structure and endurance. It’s absolutely possible to create an album that is loud and makes itself known, but to craft something that has immense depth and is multi-dimensional is something that only the finest are able to do in such a form that is nigh on compelling. With a raw emotional approach and a simply massive sound, Pillar of Light is a clear demonstration of everything coming together perfectly to make their debut album, “Caldera”, a true spectacle. Positively magnificent to behold from beginning to end, the only thing that can match the unyielding power of this record is the sheer visceral nature of the themes and lyrics that quickly elevate this record to become something that many have strived for through the many different realms of doom and sludge metal, yet it is in what’s only their first creation that Pillar of Light have hit the nail right on the head in such a fashion that begs the use of the word “masterful”. Dripping with melancholy and sorrowful on a level that we can all relate with, the very depths of “Caldera” are made for those who take a mirror to their very soul and observe what’s held therein no matter what sights or horrors await with the acquiring of such knowledge. A deep, reflective and no less than treacherous pool, this is an album the demands you dive headfirst into in order to uncover all that it has to offer.

A gut-wrenching performance that left nothing on the table and poured out the complete souls from Pillar of Light, “Caldera” stands tall, imposing, and terrifying in the most majestic form of macabre. Much of what’s put into this creation is what many seek to bring forth in this corner of sludgy doom with few able to tap into it on such a level as what Pillar of Light has accomplished here. A debut that is immensely layered and nothing short of meticulously crafted, “Caldera” is a must for any who want to leave 2024 off on a massive note.

“Caldera” releases on December 6th via Transcending Obscurity Records!

LISTEN to advanced tracks from “Caldera” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Pillar of Light on Facebook here.