This is the third album from Tor Marrock, which is the name of the bandleader as well as the band itself. They are currently a trio, although they appear to often operate as a quartet, and comprise Tor Marrock (guitars, vocals), Dio Davies (drums) and Dean Vaughan (bass). Although black metal is obviously a major influence on their approach, they are also heavily impacted by the Gothic scene and emotional metal, and the end result is something which is incredibly atmpospheric. The bass is picked with a plectrum and has a hard-leading edge to the tone, and there are times when it acts almost as the lead melody instrument with the guitars creating a curtain of noise. I was already thinking they reminded me somewhat of Incubbus Succubus (yes, I know they changed their spelling but I knew them like this), but with the introduction of a female lead singer (Liv Free) on “(Let’s Make) Love In The Dark” I knew I had it right.

There is a real depth to this album, something that makes the listener keep retuning to see what else they may have missed and what else there is to gain from playing it again. Solid and powerful, it is going to be interesting to see how this is received as there is a risk it may fall between different camps and not gain the plaudits it so obviously deserves. That would be a real shame, as this is an album of real merit which I have enjoyed immensely. Darkened, blackened, atmospheric, gothic commercial metal anyone? Yes please.

Rating: 8/10

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/TOR-MARROCK-161843921361/
https://www.facebook.com/blackvulturerecords666/