In the Hands of the Betrayer from South Florida epic doom Metallers Northern Crown has been unleashed for mass consumption today. Purchase and/or stream the album via this link.
As one of the oldest genres of heavy metal, doom metal’s roots are buried deep and anchor the extensive forest that heavy metal has become. Northern Crown pays homage to those who have come before in its approach to riffs, organ use, and pacing, but doesn’t let the old school ways of doom define it.
In the Hands of the Betrayer features five intense pieces ranging from four to twelve minutes in length. Covering the emotions of retribution, shock, outrage, and despair in the originals, the album rounds out with a cover of Candlemsss’ 1986 anthem, Crystal Ball. “Doom, specifically, is about alienation,” main songwriter and guitarist Zachary Randall explains. If other acts can be said to be the trees of the forest, Northern Crown is the velvet fog unfurling through them. Randall goes on to note that, “this is easily the most personal art I’ve ever created, both musically and lyrically.” Each song, the oldest more than ten years in the making, is detailed, emotive, and pronounces a rare resonance and memorability. Northern Crown is the sound of realization and reaction, with a touch of smoke and mirrors – an approaching, encroaching storm.
