REVIEW

The fifth album from Chicago, Illinois psychedelic doom metal band REZN.‍

The current lineup consists of Rob McWilliams (Guitar), Phil Cangelosi (Bass/Rainstick), Patrick Dunn (Drums/Percussion), and Spencer Ouellette (Synth/Sax/Lapsteel/Flute/Piano). Originally a project between childhood friends Rob and Phil, the band expanded after their move to Chicago in 2014, with Patrick and Spencer joining for sessions. REZN officially launched as a band in 2016, releasing their debut album Let It Burn in 2017, which drew attention in the underground scene for its hypnotic yet punishingly heavy sound.

REZN’s signature lies in their draggy, spiritual wall of sound that blends the foundations of psychedelic stoner rock and doom metal with the ethereal textures of shoegaze. This new album intensifies the gloom and sense of confinement established on its companion release, Solace, resulting in what might be their darkest work to date.

Highlights include #1 “Indigo,” which opens with a mysterious intro before erupting into thick, beast-like guitar tones. Swirling riffs intertwine with exotic, folk-inspired melodies, evoking a sense of transgressive ritual that lingers like a silken thread. #2 “Instinct” features vocals steeped in deep melancholy, guiding a dramatic sonic landscape, while #4 “Bleak Patterns” explodes from a lullaby-like introduction into full-throttle walls of sound. #5 “Collapse” showcases eerily dancing Eastern-inspired motifs, #6 “Soft Prey” channels Spencer’s saxophone to convey a dry, poignant sorrow, and #7 “Chasm” delivers noise-doom with the force of a landslide.

Fans of legends like Pink Floyd and Black Sabbath, or contemporary heavy, reverberant doom-gaze acts such as Blanket, Spotlights, and post-metal/prog releases on Pelagic Records, may find this album particularly compelling. The companion album Solace is also highly recommended. It’s worth noting that few shoegaze acts incorporate traditional or folk music influences—particularly in Japan—but REZN demonstrates how effective such elements can be within a heavy, ethereal framework.