Review by Adam M on March 30, 2017.

Pallbearer perform a very hook laden approach to doom metal. There are cavernous riffs here that are memorable and become ingrained in the subconscious. This style of metal is one of a kind because there is no band that plays the same doom metal formula that Pallbearer does. There is a certain traditional metal influence to be found here that gets reflected particularly by the vocals. It is enough to get one excited about the band, though it is only one aspect to be found here.

The riffs have a huge impact and are the main focal point of the instruments present. In fact, nothing else is really worth mentioning besides the slick vocals to go along with those riffs. Musically, the outfit is tight as you would expect and able to deliver some interesting music that is catchy, but thoughtful enough as well.  The music really strikes a balance between being memorable and being compelling. The music is comparable to the likes of last year’s Khemmis release, but has its own unique sound as well. This album is very similar in quality to the Khemmis release and should be embraced by the same people that like that band. Similarly, there is a traditional vibe and the songs go on for epic lengths of time. This album is even longer than that one, so fans of the style really have something to grasp here. The compositions wind around into all sorts of interesting territory and even slow down from time to time to breathe. If there is a flaw to the music it’s that it’s overly drawn out at times. The music does take some time to become accustomed to, but when you do it is a fulfilling experience.

There simply isn’t any doom of a similar nature to be released very recently and this elevates Heartless into higher territories of quality.

Rating: 8.1 out of 10