Sunn O)))'s eighth studio album, Life Metal, is a sonic behemoth that distills the band's 21 years of experience into a formidable metal release. Recorded and mixed by the renowned Steve Albini entirely on analog tape, this album is a testament to the band's unwavering dedication to their craft. The title 'Life Metal' is an inside joke among band members and collaborators, adding a layer of intrigue to this already captivating record.
Released on 26 April 2019 via Southern Lord, Life Metal is a masterclass in drone, doom metal, sludge metal, and dark ambient genres. The album's four tracks - 'Between Sleipnir's Breaths', 'Troubled Air', 'Aurora', and 'Novæ' - weave together to create a soundscape that is both haunting and mesmerising. With a duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, Sunn O))) takes listeners on a journey through the depths of their unique sound, showcasing the band's ability to craft complex, atmospheric music that is both challenging and rewarding.
Life Metal has been met with widespread critical acclaim, with many praising the band's return to form. This album is a must-listen for fans of experimental and metal music, and a testament to Sunn O)))'s continued innovation and creativity in the genre. With its release, Sunn O))) has cemented their position as one of the most exciting and influential bands in the metal scene, and Life Metal is an essential addition to any music collection.