This could not have been more aptly named. Chelsea Wolfe stares into the titular abyss throughout, constantly threatened with being swallowed up by an all-consuming album that overpowers and overwhelms with decibel-smashing industrial fuzz.
Beautifully crafted juxtapositions of ethereal vocals and heavy goth-synth accompaniment, executed expertly here on Iron Moon, have become staples of her sound. Throw into the mix off-kilter piano melodies and the occasional stripped back moment and you have the makings of a record fit to soundtrack any mental undoing.
On Maw, Wolfe illustrates a vivid picture with evocative lyrics in a rare instance of her vocals pushing back against an overpowering musical backdrop. Here the two elements complement each other and showcase the vast soundscapes she is able to create.
Dragged Out is an emotional unravelling Katie Jane Garside would be proud of, while the strings on Grey Days add an air of classical drama and dynamics to proceedings. Crazy Love’s foundation of acoustic guitars provides eardrums with some welcome relief.
Colour Of Blood, though, lulls the listener into a false sense of security before a relentless, blasting drum beat kicks in at the 2:20 mark. But even that sonic hiding is nothing compared to the assault that lies in wait on the title track. With discordant keys and erratic strings, it is a manic end to a tumultuous album.
Seeping with eeriness and unhinged charm, ‘Abyss’ represents a tempestuous journey through Wolfe’s psyche. It is something to endure rather than enjoy and could be your making or undoing, as it might be hers.
Chelsea Wolfe Upcoming Tour Dates are as follows:
Sun November 22 2015 - LONDON Islington Assembly Hall
Tue November 24 2015 - LEEDS Brudenell Social Club
Wed November 25 2015 - DUBLIN Button Factory
Sun November 29 2015 - BRISTOL Fleece
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