Review
Seraphim
The Light In The Distance

Seraphim created a good bit of buzz with an EP release last year on A389. What the Ep proved is that this 3 piece was capable of creating an immense amount of power with very little bells and whistles to speak of. While many bands are capable of making a memorable first release very few can take those strengths and make them work in the context of a full length release.
The bands strengths remain the same the atmospheric interludes, heavy sludge riffing, and demented vocals all feel right at home here just as they did on the EP. Sharing a certain kinship with labelmates Caulfield they lean towards long song structures that accentuate the notes and space between the brutality. The band would find more of a kinship with their southern metal brethren rather than what could be described as hardcore.
The album begins with a short introduction employing a distant melody using guitar this can only be described as cleansing ones auditory palate for what is to come. of the course of 50 minutes Seraphim utilize hallmarks of many genres. The band mainly relies on shoegaze and sludge to build a mesmerizing result across the albums' span.
While most songs span well over 5 minutes no second seems wasted. Everything feels well thought out making the most to build atmosphere and overall stronger structures than most bands that venture into similar territory musically. The production is spot on giving more clarity to the instruments that the vocals creating the impression that the vocals are amongst the instruments rather than the focal point of any given song. This trick helps to leave the listener within the pocket of the song rather than letting them be jarred out of the bands overall hypnotic quality.
Seraphim, with this release have truly proved capable of making a strong full length while maintaining some semblance of growth withing their sound. This all leads me to believe that if many loud music fans were to give this record the time it deserves Seraphim would become the next Mastodon. The opportunity for this 3 piece to build artistic and likable records is something that many bands never have the capability to do. Hopefully the record buying public agrees and supports them.