KINGS DESTROY

With a majority of KINGS DESTROY members possessing a NYHC union cards, the last thing the otherwise uninformed might assume about "And the Rest will Surely Perish" is how just how much of a quintessential blues-based, classic doom metal album it is. It's not sludgy or atmospheric, nor is it some kind of experimental hybrid. It is heavy fucking doom metal in the traditional sense with a basis in 10-ten riffs, a fat low end (thanks to Sanford Parker),and those good ole devil blues that defined the works of the masters, including the first BLACK SABBATH album.

Rather than coming off as one-pace ponies or stubbornly sticking to a one-riff-or-bust mentality, the reason that "And the Rest will Surely Perish" will have at least some crossover appeal is that the songwriting is unquestionably doom, but doesn't get stuck in a rut. That's not to say this is the stuff of high-speed adventures over treacherous terrain. Rather, when slow 'n sizzling is the primary approach, a little swing and a lot of groove goes a long way. A key ingredient is without a doubt the vocals of Steve Murphy whose soulfully gloomy style combines elements of Ozzy Osbourne and Parry Farrell (yes, that one),but more than anything reminds of underrated SOLACE vocalist Jason. Murphy's voice has that certain something that causes goose bumps and spine tingles with slights change in inflection.

In fact, more than just Murphy's vocals, "And the Rest will Surely Perish" that is less about acts like YOB and much more about more traditionally doom side of SOLACE. The monstrous up-tempo shift that occurs in a later section of "Stung" is a definitive SOLACE moment as well. Otherwise, "Stung" stands out as one hot blues doomer with a slinking lick to die for and a delivery that proportions the difference between BLACK SABBATH, CLUTCH, and EARTHRIDE. The beauty of the album is that the more you listen the more you change your mind about the best song. That's a good sign.

Any longer than its 45 minutes (across eight tracks) and "And the Rest will Surely Perish" might have seemed boated, leaving the listener stuffed and uncomfortable. As it turns out, what you get is just right; comforting in its familiarity and refreshing in its approach.