Many people would argue that metal is a genre you can enjoy all year round, and I for one do agree on that statement except when it comes to the likes of black, death, gothic and some thrash metal. As my taste in music, owing most certainly to my autistic brain, carries vibes and connotations that make me associate certain genres with times of year.

Case in point, doom metal has always been a genre I find fitting for the autumnal months. A time when death and destruction reaps itself upon nature in the most naturally beautiful form, and I’ve always felt that slow, serene, atmospherics and psychedelia to be the best sort of soundtrack.

And one band has, in my eyes, taken centre stage in leading the doomy soundtrack to the twilight months of 2024. Demon Head, all the way from Denmark with their fifth album, Through Holes Shine the Stars. Oddly enough, I was quite surprised to learn these Danes have only been on the metal stage for 12 years now. I must have confused them with similar bands who have been around longer, but that did not rob the band from the longevity they exhibit on the beautifully autumnal new release.

Demon Head certainly picked the right time of year for this release, as it has kept my anxious heart warm during walks through nature and the city streets where the deep riffs and wailing vocals soak up the golden brown vibe of the world around me.

If I were to liken this album to anyone similar, I’d say Demon Head fashioned a dark crooning similar to goth metal outfit, Unto Others but with less gothic tendencies. Through the Holes Shine the Stars is more of a traditional doom piece with a good share of old school riffs mixed with elements of stoner and more colourful areas that have helped shape the doom metal world.

In all, this is an album you’ll want to hear if you want something that has a good share of occult imagery and musicianship that vibes best with the darker times of the year. Ideal for any metalhead who just cannot get enough of the shorter days.

(8/10 Demitri Levantis)

https://www.facebook.com/Demoncoven

https://demonhead.bandcamp.com/album/through-holes-shine-the-stars