It’s almost bittersweet that the mystical notes of Tribulation’s newest release would be the final one of guitarist Jonathan Hultén, who had been with the band since its inception in 2004. But there’s no better way than going out on top as Where The Gloom Becomes Sound melds the Gothic, doomy, melancholic, atmospheric horror driven by Hultén and Adam Zaars along with bassist/vocalist Johannes Andersson. The music balances past extremity with the Gothic overtones that drew attention with The Children Of The Night and solidifies Tribulation as one of the best in the metal scene. Where The Gloom Becomes Sound takes the #11 spot on our countdown.

Scribe Nick Balazs praised Where Gloom Becomes Sound in his review:

“Funeral Pyre” is the most aggressive that goes for that blackened thrash that could fit on a Necrophobic record. It’s great to know these guys still have that extreme metal blood flowing through them. That comfortable Gothic rock sound appears on “Hour Of The Wolf” and “Elementals”. Think Idle Hands (now known as Unto Others) except with death metal vocals. Closer “The Wilderness” fits a dooming and dreadful vibe that reminds of In Solitude and ends the record on a fitting note.

Vocalist Johannes Andersson has come into his own as a vocalist with his death metal, throaty singing which keeps Tribulation unique for the music they’re playing. They just wouldn’t sound right if they changed to clean vocals. Oscar Leander comes into his own behind the kit as well with a nasty, violent drum sound that bleeds volcanic drum fills providing proper texture to the band’s opus.

(Photo - Ester Segarra)

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