Album Review: Temple Of The Fuzz Witch - Apotheosis
Reviewed by Matthew Williams
There’s always an assumption, well mainly from me I suppose, that whenever I get a release to review from the phenomenal people at Ripple Music, it’s going to be music of the highest possible standard, as the label is synonymous with stunning music from exceptional bands, and I’m happy to report right now, that this latest offering is no exception to that rule.
Having signed to the legendary label to release their third full length album “Apotheosis” Detroit’s blackened doom trio Temple of the Fuzz Witch have unleashed a barrage of riffs and lyrics that are as bleak and crushing as any Michigan winter, with their own unique take on the doom genre. Their released single “Ashes” served notice on what we were about to receive and it’s nothing short of awe-inspiring.
It all begins with a scratchy, fuzzy opening as the drums from Taylor Christian kick in and “A Call To Prey” rises up from the ashes to lead the charge on an album that will surprise a lot of people. The riff from guitarist and vocalist Noah Bruner are ones that instantly stick in the memory and leave you wanting more and more. And the hammering continues with “Wight” which has the feel of a satanic ritual, with big heavy hitting Sabbathesque riffs spread across the song.
The album is full of nightmarish sonic processions and when combined with Bruner’s balance of crypt worthy growls and grunge style clean vocals, it gives the songs real depth and atmosphere. Listen to the breathtaking “Nephillim” and the exquisite “Bow Down” and you can’t fail to be excited. Everything about this album is bigger, heavier and darker, and as the band commented they “wanted to do something that stepped outside of the box a little bit”.
Nevertheless, the album is still full of catchy riffs that are the staples of doom metal, but they’ve added their own twist with blackened vocals and a few more up tempo tracks, with the bass playing from Joe Peet, adding so much to the depth of the music. “Cursed” has that air of evil running right through it, and “Raze” gives you the impression of an impending horror scenario with the added synth adding to the nightmarish vibe.
The trio have each added a bit of their own soul to this record and when you listen to songs like the aforementioned “Ashes” you will find something fresh but dark, that you’ll be able to connect with and the album as a whole with put Temple of the Fuzz Witch on the radar for all fans of doom and black metal.
