Crystal Spiders’ latest offering, “Metanoia,” released on May 23, 2025 via Ripple Music, finds the North Carolina quartet deepening their Doom-laden Heavy Rock sound into something both visceral and hypnotic. With “Metanoia,” Crystal Spiders reaffirm their sonic identity with a third studio effort that unfolds as a visceral journey filled with symbolism, blending Doom-laden heaviness, Stoner Rock grit, and Heavy Psych overtones. Right from the first moments, the album captivates with its sonic impact, thanks to a sharp and dynamic production handled by Mike Dean (Corrosion of Conformity), which brings out the full potential of this power trio. The opening track, “Torche,” immediately immerses the listener in the band’s signature atmosphere, driven by a monolithic rhythm section and fuzz-drenched guitars that unleash crushing riffs and sprawling, lysergic solos. Brenna Leath’s commanding vocals add a Psychedelic edge to the track, which fuses Doom and Heavy Rock into a primal struggle narrative—fire and light acting as metaphors for both conflict and revelation. From there, the mood darkens with “Blue Death,” a piece steeped in gloomy undertones. The track opens with distorted guitar textures and Leath’s evocative voice, gradually building into a slow-burning Doom Rock anthem. As minutes pass, the intensity rises, incorporating Heavy Rock elements, with well-structured riffs and a seamless interplay between vocals and instrumental sections. The piece feels like a modern, ironic retelling of Poe’s ‘The Masque of the Red Death,” reimagined in crushing tones. In contrast, “Ignite” injects a burst of raw energy. This short yet impactful track leans into classic Heavy Rock territory, with a tight, driving rhythm section and sharp guitar work. The vocals are punchy and infectious, making it one of the most immediate songs on the album. “Time Travel” explores themes of burden and the inexorable passage of time, starting with enveloping Doom-laced atmospheres. The track evolves into a powerful sonic assault in its second half, marked by a tempo shift that injects dynamic Heavy Rock vigor. Spiraling solos highlight the electric guitar’s expressive capacity, before circling back to the opening theme for a strong, vocal-led conclusion. One of the album’s standout moments is “Maslow,” a Doom-drenched meditation on existential purpose and the search for meaning. Leath delivers an outstanding vocal performance, anchoring the track with deep basslines alongside a solid drum backbone. The guitar layers are thick and immersive, creating a hypnotic flow that peaks in a heavy-laced solo, showcasing the band’s ability to blend emotional depth with raw sonic power. The narrative continues with “21,” a track that reflects on the unpredictability of fate and the defining nature of our choices. Rooted in a classic heavy rock spirit, the band modernizes the sound with a personal touch. Guitar work takes center stage throughout, with textured riffs and subtle interplay weaving a high-level progression of ideas. Closing the album is “OS,” the longest and most expansive piece on the record, clocking in at over eight minutes. This finale delivers a dense and sophisticated rhythmic structure, where thunderous riffs and intricate guitar passages intertwine with expressive and intense vocals. The track blends Doom heaviness with a Heavy Psych edge, concluding the album on a deeply Atmospheric and immersive note. “Metanoia” is a strong release that highlights the band’s evolving yet unmistakable style, offering a tracklist rich in emotion and power from beginning to end. A highly recommended listen for fans of doom-rooted rock sounds, enriched by a distinctively Heavy Psychedelic flair.
Tacklist
01. Torche (05:47)
02. Blue Death (06:13)
03. Ignite (03:45)
04. Time Travel (06:24)
05. Maslow (07:49)
06. 21 (05:26)
0 7.OS (08:34)
Lineup
Brenna Leath / Bass, Vocals
Aaron Willis / Drums, Percussion
Reid Rogers / Guitar
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