Doom Metal: Echoes of Darkness and Melancholy, the Journey of Evolution, and Must-Hear Essential Albums
For me, doom metal is one of my favourite heavy metal subgenres — I put it at the top. I really like the heavy, echoing sounds played at a slow tempo, although sometimes the tempo can be fast. With classical instruments often brought in, like a symphony, the music becomes more dramatic. The melodramatic nature of the songs and the ‘dark and melancholic’ themes seem perfect to me. Especially with doom/goth/death metal carrying the ‘beauty and the beast’ style, which depicts a combination of contrasting vocals — clean, operatic female vocals with rough, growling male vocals — making it more perfect. It’s a style that is unique and special to doom/goth metal — something that other subgenres with similar themes don’t have. Doom metal — especially with doom/goth/death metal stuff like My Dying Bride is a cathartic tool in curing the existential isolation I often feel. Although, in some cases this music makes the feeling stronger — making it difficult to let go. However, it can also be a source of introspection to understand these feelings; some feelings are first provoked until they become prominent, so that they can be understood — although sometimes uncomfortably.
Here, I would like to share the conception, a brief history, and development of doom metal, and — at the end, I would also like to share a list of 12 doom metal albums that I consider essential.
Essential as a stepping stone to explore doom metal-not just doom metal specifically, but extending to other genres that dance beautifully and horrifically.
Doom Metal: Echoes of Darkness and Melancholy.
Doom Metal is an extreme form — a subgenre of heavy metal known for its slower tempo, low-tuned guitars, and dense, weighty sound compared to other metal styles. The music and lyrics often convey dark and melancholic themes such as despair, fear, looming disaster, alienation, depression, questioning life and purpose, lost love, horror stories, and other dark emotions with a shades of gloom. Some additional instruments are often used to enrich the texture and atmosphere of the music, such as keyboard, synthesizer, violin, sitar, flute, cello, and vocal choir. They all contribute to the epic and dramatic elements that often give the piece a dark and shades of gloom or ceremonial feel.
— (Angeler, 2016, page 6; DiVita, 2022).
A Brief History and Development of Doom Metal: From its Origins to Modern Innovations — More Darker, Gloomy, Thicker, Variety and Complex.
Doom Metal emerged in the early 1970s, Black Sabbath is considered one of its main pioneers — setting the foundation for doom metal, with the influence of Tony Iommy — the eerie sound of the tritonic guitar, and the echoing, heavy voice. The opening track from first album “Black Sabbath” called “Black Sabbath” (don’t confuse, lol) has been referred to as the first doom metal song. At the same time, bands like Blue Cheer in San Francisco also contributed to the development of Doom Metal with their heavy-psychedelic and dark approach to music.
The decade of the 1980s marked the affirmation of Doom Metal, with the emergence of bands such as Saint Vitus, Pentagram, Trouble, and Candlemass (Big four of doom metal). They reinforced Doom Metal’s characteristics but also tried to combine it with new elements, such as the classical theatrics Candlemass brought on “Epicus Doomicus Metalicus” which made the genre more diverse and more violent. With doom metal they achieved commercial success at the time and increased the popularity of doom metal.
In the 1990s, doom metal underwent a vast expansion. Doom metal bands in this era managed to mix various elements such as death metal, goth, psychedelic, classical, symphonic, and hardcore with a unique and diverse approach. For example, in Europe, Paradise Lost and My Dying Bride brought death metal and goth influences into Doom Metal music, adding musical melodrama and complexity. Bands like Winter, Skepticism and Thergothon have given birth to funeral doom, which combines death-doom with mourning music, played at a very slow tempo and emphasising emptiness and despair. Highly distorted electric guitars, the use of keyboards or synthesizers to create a dark aspect, and backing vocals in the form of mournful chants or growls are typical. In Louisiana, Eyehategod, Crowbar and Acid Bath started playing slower-paced hardcore punk and adopted Black Sabbath influences — giving birth to metal sludge. Sleep and Electric Wizard played doom metal with a psychedelic feel and dark atmosphere — Give birth to stoner metal.
In the late 90s to early 2000s, drone metal or drone doom was born, a style of heavy metal that combines the slow tempo and heaviness of doom metal with the long duration tones of drone music. Drone metal is sometimes associated with post-metal or experimental metal such as Neurosis, ISIS, and Jesu.
Doom Metal, while it may not receive widespread attention from the mainstream media, remains a place for devoted fans looking for an immersive musical experience, dark atmospheres, and haunting sounds. As the Doom Metal community continues to grow around the world, the genre continues to demonstrate its power to inspire and entertain listeners who are looking for something more than just conventional metal music.
12 Essential Doom Metal Albums.
1. Paranoid by Black Sabbath (1970)
We can probably agree — for me, Black Sabbath’s second album released in 1970 is the most essential album for doom metal. Not just for heavy metal, this is the prototype of doom metal. With its blend of heavy guitar riffs, iconic vocals and dark lyrics, it helped define the sound of heavy metal and paved the way for the doom metal genre.
Many of the songs on “Paranoid” feature heavy and slow guitar riffs, a characteristic that is fundamental to doom metal music. For example, “Iron Man” and “Electric Funeral” have riffs that create a dark and oppressive atmosphere, which was later adopted by doom metal bands. Lyrically, the album is often about war, addiction, destruction, and other dark themes, all of which characterise the lyrics in doom metal. In addition, Black Sabbath created a gloomy and eerie musical atmosphere with the use of minor tones and slow song structures, which later became synonymous with doom metal.
The influence of this album is very significant for the development of doom metal. For example, Saint Vitus, Candlemass, Type O Negative, and Electric Wizzard. You can see the influence in the song “Paranoid” by Type O Negative, a cover arranged in the Type O Negative style and written by members of Black Sabbath. “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath is used as a sample for this song, starting at 2:51 and lasting 15 seconds. You should give it a try, it’s very cool to me!
2. Epicus Doomicus Metallicus by Candlemass (1986)
“Epicus Doomicus Metallicus” is the debut album of legendary Swedish doom metal band Candlemass, released in 1986. The classic one — this album not only setting the standard for doom metal, but also named the “epic doom metal” genre. Candlemass presented music that was heavier and more crushing than Black Sabbath, Pentagram, Saint Vitus or Trouble at the time. The use of energetic double-kick drums and melancholic overtones took them into previously unexplored territory.
The album’s production may sound rough by modern standards, but it suits the doom metal aesthetic of expressing dark and thick atmospheres. The heavy and soaring guitars, coupled with the iconic slow riffs, create an atmosphere that suits the dark themes.
The album’s lyrics focus on themes of darkness, suffering, emptiness, and dark mythology, harmonizing with musical sounds that portray the dark and melancholic atmosphere that characterizes doom metal.
One of the most striking elements of “Epicus Doomicus Metallicus” is Johan Längquist’s vocals. His deep, melancholic voice powerfully expresses emotions of suffering and despair, giving an extra dimension to songs like “Solitude” and “Under the Oak”. I remember the first time I heard “solitude”, my soul was shaken with a strong sense of existential isolation.
The album begins with “Solitude”, Candlemass’ signature and iconic song. With its gloomy acoustic intro, crawling tempo, heart-shaking vocals and epic guitar solo, the song evokes the perfect metallic catharsis. Other songs such as “Crystal Ball”, “Black Stone Wielder”, and “Under the Oak” also stand out with their dramatic moments and deep acoustics, creating a strong mirror between them. Although some of the longer songs like “Demon’s Gate” and “A Sorcerer’s Pledge” may have their shortcomings, they still show Candlemass’ strength in delivering powerful and impressive doom metal.
Overall, “Epicus Doomicus Metallicus” is one of the most important and essential albums in doom metal history — Especially if you’re interested in epic doom metal. With mesmerizing vocals, powerful musical compositions, and profound themes, this album not only perfectly illustrates the doom metal aesthetic but also sets the standard for many doom metal bands to follow. For metal music fans looking to delve into the roots of the genre or experience a deep and emotional listening experience, “Epicus Doomicus Metallicus” remains one of the top choices.
If you’re interested in exploring more classic doom metal, I recommend checking out the works of the other big four.
3. Nightfall by Candlemass (1987)
“Still together with Candlemass — ”Nightfall” is the second studio album by the Swedish doom metal band, released in 1987. It showcases further development of their established style from their debut album. The production is superior, the compositions more mature, with a strong emphasis on epic elements. This album perfects epic doom metal.
There were changes in personnel between Candlemass’ albums “Epicus Doomicus Metallicus” and “Nightfall”. Messiah Marcolin took over as the lead vocalist on “Nightfall”, replacing Johan Längquist. Marcolin brought a more dramatic and powerful vocal style, which became a hallmark of Candlemass during their classic era. Klas Bergwall was succeeded by Lars Johansson, who introduced a more complex and technical guitar playing style. Mats Ekström was replaced by Jan Lindh, known for his dynamic and intricate drumming. While the core identity of Candlemass’ doom metal sound remained intact, these personnel changes brought different colors and nuances to their music between their debut album and “Nightfall”.
Several songs on this album have become classics within the doom metal genre. “At the Gallows End” and “Bewitched” are often regarded as masterpieces, featuring impressive guitar riffs and powerful vocals. “Samarithan” and “Mourners Lament” also stand out with deep lyrics and touching melodies. However, my personal favorite remains “The Well of Souls” for its more exotic and sinister sound.
“Nightfall” by Candlemass is a must-listen for every doom metal enthusiast. With its impeccable production, strong songwriting, and captivating vocals, the album not only showcases the band’s musical prowess but also sets new standards for the genre. “Nightfall” is essential not just for its high quality of classic doom metal but also for a deep understanding of epic doom metal.
If you’re interested in exploring more epic doom metal, I recommend checking out Solitude Aeturnus’s work, especially “Beyond the Crimson Horizon”; Candlemass’s “Tales of Creation”; and While Heaven Wept’s “Vast Oceans Lachrymose.”
4. Lost Paradise by Paradise Lost (1990)
Paradise Lost takes the desperation of doom metal to a new level. “Lost Paradise” released in 1990, the debut album by British doom metal band Paradise Lost, stands as a seminal work in the development of the doom/death genre, the album captures the raw and nascent energy of a band on the brink of defining a new sound in the metal landscape.
The sound of Lost Paradise is characterized by heavy, down-tuned guitars, slow tempos, and a thick, oppressive atmosphere, blending aggression with a hint of melodic gothic tones. The production is raw and unpolished, enhancing the album’s gritty, underground feel.
Nick Holmes’ vocals on this album are deep, guttural growls, fitting perfectly with the dark, gloomy mood of the music. The lyrics delve into themes of despair, existential dread, and the darker aspects of human existence, typical of doom metal but with a distinct sense of personal and emotional weight. Example “Rotting Misery” , featuring punishing riffs and a haunting, melancholic melody. The title itself suggests a state of decay, both physical and mental, where the protagonist is trapped in a cycle of despair with no escape in sight. “Darkness has taken, eternally ends”, the mention of darkness taking over and the eternal end implies a finality to the suffering, a point of no return!
For fans of early death and doom metal, Lost Paradise offers a glimpse into the origins of a band that would become one of the genre’s most influential acts.
If you like this kind of stuff, I recommend trying “The Ending Quest” by Gorement, “The Pale Haunt Departure” by Novembers Doom, and “Tunnel of No Light” by October Tide.
5. Into Darkness by Winter (1990)
“Abandon all hope ye who enter here.” — Welcome to the funeral!
“Into Darkness”, the debut album from New York doom metal band Winter, released in 1990, is one of the most influential releases in the doom metal genre. With a heavier and gloomier atmosphere — it lasts for a long time.
Very heavy and slow guitar riffs, combined with thick bass and solid drums, create a very impressive wall of sound. The production of the album is quite rough and not very polished, which only adds to the raw and organic character of their music.
John Alman’s vocals add an extra dimension to the album with a deep and eerie growl, matching the dark and heavy atmosphere of the music. The lyrics are full of themes of darkness, despair, and apocalyptic, creating a bleak and introspective narrative. The combination of gripping vocals and sombre lyrics make this album an intense and immersive listening experience.
“Oppression Freedom / Oppression (Reprise)”, the opening track, immediately takes the listener into the heavy and gloomy world of Winter, with its slow and atmospheric guitar riffs. Following this, “Servants of the Warsmen”, featuring a faster tempo compared to the other songs, but still maintaining the weight and intensity. The next track “Goden” is my favourite, with dramatic changes in tempo and dynamics, this song shows the band’s ability to create a gripping and eerie atmosphere. Next favourite, “Eternal Frost” this track is so creepy than the other tracks, the guitar riffs are played very slowly and are full of distortion, creating a heavy feel that seems to hang in the air. “Into Darkness” this epic closing track encapsulates the theme and mood of the entire album, with heavy riffs and deep.
The album has become one of the important works in doom metal history, offering an atmospheric depth. And also contributed to the upcoming birth of funeral doom.
If you like this kind of stuff, I recommend you to try “Transcendence Into the Peripheral/dusk” by Disembowelment (another masterpiece for me), then there’s “Stream From the Heavens” by Thergothon, “Stormcrowfleet” by Skepticism, “The Second Ring of Power” by Unholy (examples of avant-garde metal), “Antithesis of Light” by Evoken, “As the Light Does the Shadow” by Funeral, and last “Monotony Fields” by Shape of Despair.
Very suitable as a sleep songs…
6. Slow, Deep, and Hard by Type O Negative (1991)
“Slow, Deep and Hard”, the debut album from Brooklyn-based gothic metal band Type O Negative, released in 1991, introduced the unique and dark sound that would become the band’s trademark. Combines the speed and aggression of thrash metal with the slow tempo and gloomy atmosphere of doom and gothic, the album became one of the standout works in the genre, showcasing the creativity and musical abilities of its members — especially vocalist and bassist Peter Steele.
Peter Steele is known for his deep baritone vocals and dark, sarcastic lyrical style. On this album, his lyrics often center on themes such as betrayal, hatred, and depression, with subjective, complex, and emotional narratives.
“Unsuccessfully Coping with the Natural Beauty of Infidelity” — This opening track is an almost 12-minute epic that includes various changes in tempo and dynamics. Its sarcastic and angry lyrics describe betrayal and heartbreak. for example “I know you’re fucking someone else (he knows you’re fucking someone else.” — this part is so lit! “Der Untermensch” or interpreted as ‘lowly human beings’, along with aggressive riffs and controversial lyrics, the song showcases Steele’s social rage towards people he perceives as a burden on society. Then there is “Gravitational Constant: G = 6.67 × 10^-8 cm^-3 gm^-1 sec^-2”, an epic closing track, full of moving melodies and introspective lyrics, creating a haunting atmosphere.
Slow, Deep and Hard is a bold and innovative debut album, marking the beginning of Type O Negative’s influential career. The album showcases the band’s courage to explore and combine various musical genres, creating a unique and authentic sound. While it may not be as polished as their more mature works, the album has a raw intensity and deep emotion, making it an essential part of their musical catalogue.
For fans of gothic and doom metal, Slow, Deep and Hard is a must-listen album. It is a powerful introduction to the dark and emotional world of Type O Negative’s music, showing the great potential they will realise in their next albums.
Type O Negative is Type O Negative! If you like this kind of stuff just explore their discography — although the thrash metal element is slowly not as thick and rough as before.
7. Turn Loose the Swans by My Dying Bride (1993)
“Turn Loose the Swans” is a masterwork of gothic doom metal, combining the weight and intensity of doom with the dark romanticism of gothic metal. The album’s use of classical instrumentation, poetic lyrics, and dynamic vocal delivery set it apart from its contemporaries. My Dying Bride manages to create a soundscape that is both crushingly heavy and achingly beautiful, drawing the listener into a world of sorrow and introspection — I love it.
“Turn Loose the Swans”, the sophomore album by British doom metal band My Dying Bride, released in 1993. The album marks a significant evolution from their debut, “As the Flower Withers”. My Dying Bride expands their sonic palette, incorporating elements of gothic metal alongside their doom metal roots. The inclusion of violin and piano, performed by Martin Powell, adds a layer of melancholy and sophistication to the band’s sound. The production is more polished, allowing each instrument to breathe and contribute to the overall atmosphere.
Aaron Stainthorpe’s vocal performance on “Turn Loose the Swans” is notable for its range and emotional depth. He seamlessly transitions between deep, guttural growls and mournful, clean singing. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, exploring themes of love, loss, despair, and the passage of time. Stainthorpe’s delivery imbues the lyrics with a profound sense of yearning and sorrow.
“Sear Me MCMXCIII”, opening with a haunting piano and violin duet, this track sets the tone for the album. Next, “Your River”, combining slow, heavy riffs with somber violin melodies, this song exemplifies the band’s ability to create a deeply emotional experience. “Turn Loose the Swans”, the title track is a masterful composition, weaving together all the elements that define the album. Stainthorpe’s growls and clean vocals are complemented by intricate guitar work and poignant violin lines.
For fans of doom and gothic metal, “Turn Loose the Swans” is an essential listen. It represents a significant moment in the evolution of the genre, showcasing My Dying Bride’s ability to push boundaries and create music that is both emotionally powerful and musically complex. This album remains a touchstone for the band and a high point in their discography, continuing to influence and inspire the genre decades after its release.
If you like this kind of stuff, I recommend you to try “The Angel & The Dark River” or “As the Flowers Withers” and “The Dreadful Hours”by My Dying Bride, “Serenades” and “The Silent Enigma” by Anathema, “Gothic” by Paradise Lost (this album is very influential for Katatonia music), and “Paradise Belongs To You by “Saturnus”.
8. For Funerals to Come by Katatonia (1995)
It’s not the first time elements of black, death, and doom have danced together. Previously, the influential extreme metal band from the 80s, Celtic Frost, had done it in their work “To Mega Therion.” Even Tiamat, one of the early 90s doom metal bands, attempted this fusion in “The Sumerian Cry.” However, in my opinion, no one has done it as perfectly as Katatonia, especially in the EP “For Funerals to Come,” having previously experimented in “Dance of December Souls.” Thus, “black doom” was born.
Released in 1995, “For Funerals to Come” is an EP by the Swedish band Katatonia. The EP reflects Katatonia’s successful merging of black metal’s dark, atmospheric qualities with doom metal’s slow, heavy, and sorrowful characteristics. It is characterized by slow, heavy riffs, atmospheric keyboards, and and even more melancholic melodies.
This hybrid genre allows the band to explore a wide emotional and sonic range, making the EP a significant and influential release in the metal genre.
Try, “Decembers of the Souls” by Katatonia, and “Wolfheart” by Moonspell. Or with more prominent black metal, such as “Songs to Leave” by Forgotten Tomb or “Antarctica” by Nonexistence.
9. Theatre of Tragedy by Theatre of Tragedy (1995)
“the beauty and the beast” of goth/doom metal.
“Theatre of Tragedy”, self-titled debut album by the Norwegian band Theatre of Tragedy, released in 1995, marks a significant entry into the gothic metal genre. The album blends elements of doom metal with industrial and gothic influences, setting a distinctive tone that would define the band’s early career. Creating a dark and atmospheric ambiance that immerses listeners in its theatrical world.
The album is characterized by a unique blend of heavy guitars, ethereal keyboards, and dual vocal styles or called “the beauty and the beast”. Liv Kristine Espenæs delivers angelic, operatic vocals that contrast with Raymond István Rohonyi’s deep, harsh growls.
The lyrics explore themes of love, loss, and tragedy, often presented in poetic and theatrical mannerisms, enhancing the album’s dramatic impact.
“And When He Falleth” is an example.
For me, this is not the best theatre of tragedy album — “Velvet Darkness They Fear” is much better. But its contribution to perfecting “the beauty and the beast” style is essential to the development of goth/doom music.
If you like this stuff, I suggest trying “Silent Pain” by The Sins of Thy Beloved, “Where Lovers Mourn” or “Sovran” by Draconian, “The Silhouette” by Ava Inferi, “New Moon” by Swalow The Sun, and the latest masterpiece “May Our Chambers Be Full” by Emma Ruth Rundle and Thou.
In my opinion, all of these albums are much better.
10. In the Name of Suffering by Eyehategod (1991)
One of my favourite sludge metal albums — Black Sabbath worshippers from the south. “In the Name of Suffering”, the debut album by New Orleans sludge metal band Eyehategod, released in 1991, is a raw and unrelenting exploration of darkness and despair. This album serves as a visceral introduction to the band’s signature style, characterized by its aggressive sound, bleak lyrics, and uncompromising attitude.
The album is marked by hardcore punk influences and doom metal, particularly influenced by bands like Black Sabbath. Eyehategod’s sound is characterized by slow, downtuned guitars that create a thick, oppressive atmosphere. The riffs are heavy and distorted, supported by a relentless rhythm section that emphasizes a sense of doom and decay. The production is intentionally rough and gritty, enhancing the album’s raw and abrasive sound.
Vocalist Mike IX Williams delivers guttural, anguished vocals that perfectly complement the bleak and nihilistic lyrics. The lyrics delve into themes of addiction, suffering, societal decay, and personal turmoil. Williams’ delivery is visceral and intense, capturing the despair and desperation portrayed in the songs.
“Man is Too Ignorant to Exist” is a strong example of Eyehategod’s ability to create heavy, dark, and stressful music. The song showcases the band’s expertise in combining elements from doom metal and hardcore punk to create a distinctive sludge metal sound.
If you like this stuff, I recommend “My War” by Black Flag, “When the kite String Pops” by Acid Bath, “Odd Fellows Rest” by Crowbar, and “Temptations’s Wings” by DOWN.
11. Sleep’s Holy Mountain by Sleep (1993)
Released in 1993, Sleep’s Holy Mountain is the second studio album by the American stoner metal band Sleep. This album is often regarded as a cornerstone in the genre of stoner metal, showcasing the band’s ability to blend heavy, distorted riffage with psychedelic elements and a unique sense of heavy atmosphere.
Sleep’s Holy Mountain is characterized by its heavy, slow-tempoed riffs, massive guitar tones, and trance-inducing grooves. The album draws influences from traditional doom metal but infuses it with a distinct stoner rock vibe. The guitar work by Matt Pike and the rhythm section provide a thick, dense wall of sound that envelops the listener, creating a hypnotic and immersive experience.
“Dragonaut”, sets the tone with its massive, chugging riff and repetitive groove, instantly drawing listeners into Sleep’s sonic universe. The epic “Holy Mountain”, with its epic length and meandering, psychedelic journey that builds layers of intensity and heaviness.
As a seminal work in stoner metal, Sleep’s Holy Mountain has had a profound influence on the genre and beyond.
If you like this kind of stuff, I recommend you to try “Dopesmoker” by Sleep, “Vinum Sabbathi” or “Doom Mantia” by Electric Wizzard, or more melancholic ones like “God Luck and Good Speed” by Weedeater, “Soma” by Boleskine, and the more ‘drifting’ “Amerijauanican” by Bongzilla.
12. Earth 2: Special Low Frequency Version by Earth (1993)
“Earth 2: Special Low Frequency Version”, released in 1993 by the American band Earth, is a pioneering album that is widely credited with founding the drone metal genre. The album’s minimalist approach, focus on heavy, sustained tones, and lack of conventional song structures create a meditative and immersive listening experience.
The sound is stripped down to its most basic elements: deep, resonant guitar tones and minimal percussion. The production is raw, allowing the natural reverberations of the instruments to fill the sonic space and create a sense of vastness and depth.
Earth 2 is an instrumental album, so there are no vocals or lyrics. The absence of vocals allows the focus to remain solely on the textures and dynamics of the guitar work, creating a purely instrumental exploration of sound.
To be honest, I find it boring if I listen to it for too long. However, it is interesting to experience.
Sun O))) with “Black One” is more interesting to me. Or “Weighing Souls With Sand” by Angelic Process — Despair will be there.
If you’re interested in this kind of stuff, try the works from Boris (early), Jesu and ISIS.
