A signifier of an act that’s knows they’re craft from top to bottom is the simple fact that they use their experience to not just keep moving forward but continuously improve upon their craft in such a form that feels nigh on compelling. That’s something that can be said for throngs of acts across the underground, but it’s always a real treat to behold in damn near every given form for all that can be accomplished with such potential when a band really gets a firm grip upon their sound. You never know where it will happen next, and that’s always part of the fun. When I sat down to listen to the latest from Veil of Conspiracy tonight, I figured I was in for some quality doom metal, but their performance here in their third effort really caught me off-guard with spectacular results.

It is always a great sign to see any name, experienced or otherwise, really take to heart what has always made their sound a standout section of the vast metal spectrum, and it’s just an absolute joy to witness any and every band seize their potential in that regard and make their name known far and wide for all the right reasons. Already, Veil of Conspiracy was a band that was not to be underestimated given its last performance and the sprawling talent that its members boast in heaps. And yet, there’s something about “Shape of Grief” that not only feels far grander and intoxicating than its predecessors but ironically shines exceedingly brighter than much of the competition. Across the whole of these eleven tracks that span a beefy runtime of almost an hour, I truly find it difficult to pin down what exactly it is that Veil of Conspiracy did right here as it really feels like they did it all! From the variety between all the tracks, the sheer evocative nature of the songwriting and everything about the vocals, the deep understanding of what this particular variety of doom can become, and the themes that we can all be familiar with, “Shape of Grief” left no stone unturned, took no chances, and made a successful excursion the likes of which is downright sensational to let wash over you. This is doom metal exquisite.

This is one of those albums where everything just came toward in such a form that feels downright intoxicating. Everyone behind the name Veil of Conspiracy should be exceedingly proud as to what they’ve crafted here as it ensured that 2025’s exhilarating streak of doom metal immediately got off to a tremendous start, and I know damn well its power will last for years to come. “Shape of Grief” has so much to offer, you must simply let it take your hand.

LISTEN to “Shape of Grief” on Bandcamp here.

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