25. Candlemass – “The Door to Doom”

The true definition of cult act, Candlemass have been going (off and on) since 1984 and are probably the most important band that you have never heard off. They have been the blueprint for modern Doom Metal and coined the phrase with their wonderful and hugely influential debut “Epicus Doomicus Metallicus”. They have split twice and have gone through thirteen separate iterations of the band. However, here in 2019 they have served certainly their best record since the eighties and a bonafide Doom Metal masterpiece. “The Door to Doom” is rich, textured and sounds utterly gorgeous. Moderation is actually the secret here. Returning vocalist Johan Längqvist (back after a 23 year absence) has deep, bellowing voice but he doesn’t over fluent it. It soars when it needs to but also is restrained and thrift of foot when needed. The musicianship is also gloriously balanced. Everything is in the right proportion. It sounds big but not oppressive. It knows where the line for being over the top is and firmly stays on the right side. Just an utter masterclass in how you make sumptuous sounding record.