Psalms

With the release of 'Psalms', Holywatr have crafted a body of work that feels less like a standard metal offering and more like a deliberate, atmospheric excavation of grief. The album clocking in at just under twenty-five minutes suggests a lean, focused narrative, yet the emotional density of the material ensures that every second feels heavy with intent. It is a record that demands a focused listen, rewarding those who appreciate the nuances of production and the subtle interplay between melody and weight.

From the opening moments of 'Starving', it is clear that the band is interested in the architecture of sound. The production is polished but retains a raw, organic edge, allowing the textures to breathe. Rather than relying on the blunt force of traditional metal tropes, Holywatr utilises a more sophisticated palette. The guitars are layered to create a sense of depth, providing a somber backdrop that feels both expansive and claustrophobic at once.

A masterclass in restraint, where the space between the notes carries as much weight as the riffs themselves.

'My Mom's In There !' serves as a jarring, visceral pivot point. Here, the atmosphere thickens, and the arrangement becomes more jagged. It is a striking piece of songwriting that manages to convey a sense of urgency without descending into melodrama. The transition into 'I Won't Forget' provides a necessary cooling period, where the melody takes centre stage, weaving through the heavy instrumentation like a haunting thread of memory.

As the album progresses into 'Mistake' and 'Fake Tears', the sonic identity of Holywatr becomes even more defined. There is a palpable sense of restraint in the performances; the vocals are delivered with a measured intensity that prioritises the emotional tone of the lyrics. The production choices here are subtle—a slight reverb on a vocal line or a dampened drum hit—but they contribute significantly to the overall sense of desolation.

'It's Too Hard to Say Goodbye' stands out as a particularly evocative piece of arrangement. The way the instruments swell and recede creates a cinematic quality, almost as if the music is reacting to the internal turmoil of the narrative. It is not merely a song, but a structured emotional arc. The band excels at building tension, allowing it to simmer before releasing it in controlled, deliberate waves.

'Moon Knight' offers a shift in perspective, introducing a slightly more ethereal atmosphere. The textures here are more fluid, showcasing the band's ability to manipulate the listener's perception of space. It is a sophisticated piece of metal that understands the power of restraint. By not over-playing, Holywatr allows the listener to inhabit the space between the notes, creating a more immersive and haunting experience.

Closing the journey with 'Without u - rock demo', the album ends on a note of raw, unvarnished honesty. The inclusion of a demo version provides a fascinating contrast to the polished production of the preceding tracks, stripping away the layers to reveal the core of the composition. It serves as a poignant coda to the collection, grounding the ethereal elements of the album in something tangible and immediate.

'Psalms' is a sophisticated achievement in modern metal. It avoids the pitfalls of over-production and histrionics, opting instead for a nuanced, texture-driven approach. Holywatr have created a cohesive, evocative world that lingers long after the final note has faded. It is a somber, beautiful, and deeply considered piece of work that marks them as masters of atmosphere.