The band deliberately chose to use coordinates as track titles to evoke a sense of mystery, detachment, and exploration. According to their Bandcamp description, the six tracks contain “keys to understanding Abyssal Vacuum,” with each geographical location carefully selected for its unique atmosphere, esoteric meaning, or occult energy.
While the concept of using coordinates as titles isn’t entirely new, the originality here lies in the precise curation of the locations themselves. In this case, the musical journey takes the listener across the globe—from the dense jungles of Belize to desolate shores along the Black Sea, from the depths of subterranean cave systems in France to other remote, rugged landscapes with a distinct character.
Each place tells its own story—some are barely accessible to humans, others are known for their exceptional natural beauty, mysterious geological formations, or ancient human presence. A number of these sites even hold UNESCO World Heritage status, pointing not only to their ecological or historical value but also to their symbolic weight within the broader narrative of the album.
This conceptual approach adds an extra layer of meaning to the music: these are not mere compositions, but sonic manifestations of places where the boundaries between nature, myth, and the unknown begin to blur. It becomes an auditory pilgrimage to the edges of the perceptible, with each track functioning as a ritual key to unlocking the dark, all-consuming void the band calls Abyssal Vacuum.
When Sebastien Besson first laid the foundation for the band in 2017, no one could have predicted the forms the project would take in the years to follow. What began as a solo endeavor gradually evolved into a fully-fledged band, with each new addition to the lineup chosen with great care. One by one, seasoned musicians joined, bringing not only instrumental skill but also their own musical identities. This evolution shaped the band into what it is today: a mature, multifaceted entity with a clear artistic vision.
After releasing four well-received EPs and two compilations collecting that earlier material, the moment has finally arrived: the long-awaited debut full-length album. And it certainly delivers.
The musical scope explored on this debut is difficult to pin down to a single genre. The band seamlessly weaves between atmospheric passages, melodic black metal segments, and crushing doom riffs. This eclectic approach gives each track its own identity, while maintaining a cohesive overall sound. It’s a journey through moods and textures, constantly keeping the listener engaged.
What stands out is the meticulous composition of each piece: nothing feels accidental, everything appears intentional. Whether it’s a chilling blast beat, a dragging riff, or an ambient interlude—every element contributes to the intensity and layered nature of the whole. The result is an album that is not only technically impressive but also emotionally resonant and immersive.
In short, with this debut, the band proves not only what it is capable of, but also that it’s ready to claim its place within the heavier reaches of the underground scene. This is no fleeting side project, but a force that asserts itself with conviction.
85/100
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