sunn O))) - Black One (2 LP)

Dive into the abyssal depths of drone and doom metal with Sunn O)))'s fifth studio album, "Black One," a monumental release that sees the band delving deep into the atmospheric and sonic landscapes of black metal. Released on October 17, 2005, via Southern Lord, this album is a testament to the band's experimental prowess and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of heavy music.

"Black One" is a sonic journey that spans a full hour and seven minutes, featuring six sprawling tracks that encapsulate the band's signature low-end heaviness and drone-infused ambiance. The album kicks off with "Sin Nanna," a haunting introduction that sets the tone for the bleak and crushing soundscape to follow. Each track is meticulously crafted, showcasing Sunn O)))'s unique blend of drone, doom metal, sludge, and dark ambient elements.

One of the standout features of "Black One" is the collaboration with notable black metal musicians. The album includes guest appearances from Malefic and Wrest, known for their work with Xasthur and Leviathan, respectively. The track "Báthory Erzsébet" features Malefic, who, according to legend, was recorded while locked in a casket—a testament to the band's dedication to creating an authentic and intense atmosphere.

The album also includes a cover of Immortal's "Cursed Realms (Of the Winterdemons)," though Sunn O))) puts their own unique spin on the song, using the same lyrics but crafting a completely different musical experience. Similarly, "Báthory Erzsébet" is a loose cover of Bathory's "A Fine Day to Die," showcasing the band's ability to reinterpret classic black metal themes through their signature lens.

"Black One" is a sonic exploration of darkness and heaviness, with each track building on the previous one to create a cohesive and immersive experience. From the haunting vocals on "Cry for the Weeper" to the experimental soundscape of "Orthodox Caveman," this album is a must-hear for fans of experimental metal and drone music.

Recorded over several sessions, including initial tracks laid down in September and November 2004 at The Sanctuary, and primary tracks recorded in May 2005 at Donner-Blitzen, "Black One" is a labor of love that showcases Sunn O)))'s dedication to their craft. The album's bleak and crushing soundscape is a testament to the band's ability to create music that is both challenging and rewarding, making it a standout release in their discography.

This is a 2024 Deluxe Edition Limited Edition Reissue released as a 2LP set.