TAR PIT "Tomb of Doom"

TAR PIT

"Tomb of Doom"

For a band called Tar Pit, this record is not quite as massively heavy as I was expecting. To be sure, they've got a pretty thick and doomy sound, but I would have thought a band called Tar Pit would sound something more like Windhand or Cough or even death-doom. Instead, "Tomb of Doom" is a pretty much by the numbers doom metal release that doesn't really stretch itself in the least.

The first and longest track "Rune" seems to be a rundown of many doom-oriented styles, starting with a crushing and oozy Sleep type riff, then speeding up to something more aggressive and then losing a ton of steam with an extended mellow section. This one starts like a lion, ends like a lamb. The final title track follows the same pattern almost exactly. The release ticks just about every box you can think of for doom metal and stoner rock, but doesn't really excel at any of those aspects. It's the definition of a good but not exceptional release. The riff to "Bruja" has been done more times than I can count and the vocals on this release are extremely average throughout. I was expecting something a bit more visceral from a band called Tar Pit.

Still, this is satisfying in a basic way and won't disappoint if you're not too choosy about your doom. I'm afraid I am.

ORDO MCM RECORDS

TAR PIT