SHADOWVALE’s Self Titled Album Is A Strong Doom Record, Though Misses That Personal Punch

Shadowvale's self titled album is out now [photo: Shadowvale]

I'm always intrigued by bands that label themselves as unlable-able. I've also admittedly dismissed sludge and doom metal in the past, preferring the faster, more traditional/NWoBHM side the genre has to offer. There's an irony then that I'm here checking out the latest from Nottingham based SHADOWVALE. The band's debut self-titled album sees Shadowvale explore their sound, covering everything from sludge, death, doom, and even splatterings of hardcore, and is their first full release since their 2024 EP. Somehow, on paper, this both ticks off my likes and dislikes. I'm excited to get stuck in to say the least.

There is little introduction before the vocals open "The Eastern Gate", introducing the listener quickly to the soundscape on show. Straight away, vocalist Lara Kelly demonstrates her capabilities, standing strong admist the heavy guitars and music. The vocals are a highlight of the album, channelling raw aggression and emotion. Later songs provide Kelly a chance to blend clean and growled vocals effortlessly, like flicking a switch on and off, something I can always appreciate within these subgenres.

The band are also great at making the most of their runtimes. There's some long songs on this album (by 'traditional' standards anyway), but nothing feels overstayed.

Previously released singles "Bloodbound" and "Barghest" fit right in, appropriately sludgy and groovy, slow headbang-inducing. The former plays with tempo brilliantly, the arms-crossed slow head nod turning into a more frantic mosh as the track twists and turns. Both songs are a great exhibit of the difficulty with putting Shadowvale in a genre box.

"Endless Chain" sees more dynamic play with vocals, a spotlight on some of Kelly's cleaner abilities. There's some excellent use of open chords here as well, the mix sounding big and ominous with each hit.

[photo: Shadowvale]

Perhaps my biggest gripe with this though, and this unfortunately extends to the sludgier genres themselves, is I do find myself struggling to tell most of the album apart. Even after a few listens, there are little parts that wedge their way in my brain, the pitfall of songs blending into one sound only narrowly avoided.

Perhaps the most interesting track is "Zopiclone Black", more spoken word interval than anything else. Single, ringing bass notes, a series of voicemails, strummed guitar chords. It explores a more technical, experimental side to the band, adding some variety into the album.

I'm not completely deterred though - I feel the album itself is only half the experience Shadowvale have to offer, and objectively, this is a strong, refined release. Closing track "The Spectre" leaves me, at the very least, intrigued for more. I'm not completely giving up with sludge or doom yet.

"Shadowvale" is out NOW on streaming services