SERMON - Single 2022
Turkish Doom Death Metal act Sermon has made a comeback after a long hiatus. Based in İzmir, the band was formed in 1997 and released their debut demo “Cosmic Prisoner” that year. Then followed by two more demos; “Sea of Meanings” (1999) and “Insanity” (2004) before disappearing from the scene for about 14 years. Currently comprised of Harun Altun (vocals), Durmuş Kalin (lead guitars) and Cem Barut (rhythm guitars), Sermon has launched their new singles on February 26, 2022 featuring 3 lengthy tracks; Posthumous (8:38) / Requitement (6:33) / Destined to Decline (8:21). These promo songs are said to be included in their upcoming album tentatively entitled “Till Birth Do Us Part”, schedule to be available through Earache Digital Distribution. Although not directly signed under Earache Records, being given the space to be in the digital platform of this prestigious label is actually an achievement to be proud of. I’m not sure where Sermon get the inspirations for their music, but my sense strongly felt that there are huge influences from UK Doom Metal classics such as Paradise Lost, My Dying Bride, Cathedral, Anathema and Solstice, and may also be infused with Swedish doom/death elements f.ex Candlemass, Tiamat, Entombed, Katatonia, Grave (just to name a few). Atmospheric, gloomy and epic characteristics stand out in Sermon’s workpieces, well-composed and well-incorporated in their heavy riffs and loud sound. The melodic parts really caught my ear, as if there were touches of Turkish native cultures and traditions. And the vocals are undeniably tremendous. Based on these 3 monumental tracks, I expect their upcoming album to be something phenomenal!
