Tarlung's latest album, Axis Mundi, is a testament to their evolution as a band. Since their debut in 2013, Tarlung has been a force in the doom metal scene, known for their thick, resinous sound and smoky sludge. With two additional full-lengths and a solid touring history, the band is now ready to release their fourth album in nearly five years. The question on everyone's mind is whether Axis Mundi will be a continuation of their established sound or a defining moment in their discography, bridging the past and the future. The album's title, Axis Mundi, hints at a pivotal moment, a connection between the old and the new. And that's exactly what Axis Mundi delivers.
Tarlung's signature sound is centered around massive riffs, and Axis Mundi is no exception. Guitarists Rotten and Phillip Seiler showcase their skills with swampy, thick riffs that are both chuggy and muscular. These riffs serve as the foundation for the album's melodies, which bubble up with a bluesy swagger. Seiler's vocal style, reminiscent of Mikael Akerfeldt, adds a layer of depth to the music. Marian Weibl's drum beats provide the necessary sonic weight, creating a dense and immersive atmosphere. Fans of Crowbar, High on Fire, and Dopethrone will find familiar territory here, but Axis Mundi also signals a progression in Tarlung's sound.
The album's opening track, 'Burning Out', sets the tone for the experimental approach that follows. It starts with an airy, soft-strummed melody, creating a sense of solitude in a country field. The track builds up with a chugging riff, but the warm, organic feel remains. 'Sea of Drowned Souls' takes this experimentation further, blending mournful melodies with clean vocals from Thérèse Lanz and Casey Rogers of Mares of Thrace. The vocal interplay between Seiler and Lanz is particularly effective, with their contrasting styles creating a satisfying counterpoint. These two tracks showcase Tarlung's ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.
Axis Mundi is a mature and well-crafted album. The songwriting is beautifully simplistic yet wildly effective, drawing listeners in with its laid-back melodies. Tracks like 'Full Circle' showcase Seiler's channeling of Matt Pike's style, and the album closer, 'Axis Mundi', delivers a Crowbar-like pounding. Despite some moments where the melodies trip over themselves, like the bluesy riff in 'Swans', the overall experience is satisfying. The album's short runtime of 38 minutes makes it an easy listen, and the replay value is high.
For fans of Tarlung, Axis Mundi is a must-listen. It's an excellent introduction to the band, and for those already familiar with their work, it's a testament to their growth. After exploring their previous efforts, I can confidently say that Axis Mundi is their best album yet. It's a slow-paced journey filled with memorable riffs and melodies that will keep you coming back for more. The album is a satisfying experience, delivering crushing warmth and a sense of satisfaction.
Rating: 4.0/5.0
DR: 320 kb/s mp3
Label: Argonauta Records
Websites: Bandcamp (https://tarlung.bandcamp.com/album/axis-mundi) | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/tarlungband/)
Releases Worldwide: January 30th, 2026
