Vitskär Süden: The Faceless King

Vitskär Süden is a new find for me. The Los Angeles quartet released their self-titled debut in 2020 and in 2022 they released their sophomore effort The Faceless King. The band plays their own version of psychedelic doomy progressive rock that should appeal to many of our readers. In the band are:

Martin Garner (bass and vocals)
Julian Goldberger (guitars and synths)
Christopher Martin (drums)
TJ Webber (guitar)

After listening to The Faceless King a few things stood out. First, the atmosphere and mood. Although not a super heavy album, the mood is heavy and sometimes ominous. Plenty of cool effects and spacey synths. Second is the multi genre approach. Progressive, space, psychedelic, and doom are all touched upon, ensuring there is a little something for everyone. Third is the lead vocals from Martin Garner. He doesn’t over sing and his tone and delivery are spot on, an excellent fit for the band’s atmospheric approach.

The disc begins with “The Way (Parts I and II)�, beginning with ominous effects, a slow build with a cool trippy section verging on space rock. The otherworldly sounds fit the mood perfectly. In “Part II� the guitar riffs are heavier and the electronics serve the heavy atmosphere well. Special mention must go to Martin’s drumming, his skill and tone putting his stamp on this one. With “Archdiocese Of Worms� you get a fuzz drenched soundscape with a layer of clean guitar, chugging riffs, and Garner’s distant sounding vocals. The mood is heavy and solemn, just a great track. Next is “Voices From Beyond The Wall", much more restrained with an almost fragile framework, still very moody with a tripped out soundscape. The last three songs are just as strong.

Bottom line - Vitskär Süden produced an excellent work with The Faceless King. Easily recommended!

A Ripple Music release.

*Stay tuned to this space for more Vitskär Süden releases!

Track Listing:
1. The Way (Part I)
2. The Way (Part II)
3. Archdiocese Of Worms
4. Voices From Beyond The Wall
5. Shepherds On The Roadside
6. Bonedust And Dark
7. The Broken Crown

Added: March 2nd 2025
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band @ Bandcamp
Hits: 202
Language: english

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