Band:	Solemn Ceremony
Album:	Chapter III
Style:	Doom metal
Release date:	August 2024
Guest review by:	Blackcrowe

01. They Rule The Night
02. Another Lie
03. Chapter III
04. Arcadia
05. The King Of Slaves
06. Skull Smasher
07. Unholy Fate

Solemn Ceremony’s Chapter III: An Aussie Doom Journey.

Australia has produced a distinctive endemic wave of metal, but the country’s metal culture is practically underground, making every success story one of resilience and defiance against the odds. This is why every record from there carries a unique importance compared to other regions. Phil Howlett is a pivotal figure in this scene, not only for his influence in producing records and supporting other artists, but also as the frontman of one of Australia’s most notable metal bands in recent history, Lucifer’s Fall.

A short while back, I was eagerly anticipating the release of Solemn Ceremony's latest album, Chapter III. After their promising debut, my expectations were high, and I was hopeful about what this new record would deliver. However, as I delved into the music, my hopes began to wane. Solemn Ceremony leans heavily on its influences, struggling to carve out its own identity. Phil Howlett's exploration of '90s-inspired doom echoes the raw sounds of Reverend Bizarre and Saint Vitus, but sometimes it feels more like a tribute than a distinct creation. From the opening track, "They Rule The Night", the album sets a dark and familiar tone that, while competent, fails to truly stand out.

The shadow of classic doom bands looms large throughout the album. "Another Lie" closely resembles Saint Vitus with its deliberate pace and vocal-driven storytelling, coming off as more derivative than innovative. The title track, "Chapter III", attempts to capture a rebellious spirit but struggles to break free from the typical doom formula. Tracks like "Arcadia" and "The King Of Slaves" showcase some ambition with intricate guitar work and heavier arrangements, yet they occasionally stumble into genre clichés. The bass lacks the necessary weight to anchor the music, resulting in songs that don’t quite reach their full impact.

The production doesn’t do much to elevate the album, aiming for a raw, vintage feel but ending up uneven. The guitars sometimes overpower other elements in the mix, and the bass sound lacks the depth that would enhance the band's intended atmosphere. Howlett's vocals sound good and Provis's outstanding guitar work contribute to a dense, moody ambiance, but the predictability of the sound becomes apparent at times. The great album artwork by the artist Adam Burke, featuring a somber red skull against a black backdrop, captures the doom aesthetic well.

Despite these initial disappointments, by the end of the album, I found that it wasn’t all negative. Chapter III may not push boundaries or redefine the genre, but it does offer moments of enjoyment, especially for those with a soft spot for traditional doom. The deep riffs and nostalgic vibes are there, and although it didn’t quite meet my lofty expectations, it eventually won me over. It’s a solid, if not groundbreaking, listen that can still satisfy doom metal enthusiasts looking for something familiar yet pleasing.

Overall, this journey through Phil Howlett’s latest album highlights both strengths and areas for improvement. One can only hope that the negative aspects are taken as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks. Solemn Ceremony has a lot of potential and, with some refinement, could truly shine in the doom metal scene.