Ice Sealed Eyes’ Trilogy: from Torments to Laments
Band: Ice Sealed Eyes
Ep Title: Vol.3: Laments
Release Date: 24/05/2024
With the release of their latest EP “Vol.3: Laments“, the Belgian band, Ice Sealed Eyes proves to us that they are an undeniable force. Their unique blend of atmospheric sounds, brutal breakdowns, and captivating vocals sets them apart in the metal music scene. Being their third volume in a series of EPs, I wanted to dive into this trilogy to get the full picture of the project.
Vol.1: Torments (May 26, 2023)
This first EP, “Vol.1: Torments“, sets the stage with its immersive blend of atmospheric interludes and heavy sounds. Ice Sealed Eyes showcase their ability to juggle between beauty and brutality. The EP opens with “Vlmb,” an interlude that gradually builds up and seamlessly transitions into the title track, “Torments“. This song hits hard with heavy instrumentals and introduces the beautiful cleans of Noé Peigneur, the band’s vocalist. A standout element of this song for me is the sudden silence at 2:15, followed by an even more brutal breakdown.
“There is No Safety In The Dark” begins with delicate vocals, which are soon contrasted by heavy instrumentals. This juxtaposition builds tension until it culminates in an explosion of heaviness. “Distance“, another interlude, sets a dark, atmospheric tone and prepares us for “Fracture“. This last song features a heavy breakdown combined with background noise to create an uneasy feeling.
The EP’s rollercoaster of emotions, from the unsettling heaviness to the serene beauty, and left me feeling both captivated and unsettled, in the best way possible.
Vol.2: Fragments (November 30, 2024)
“Vol.2: Fragments” continues the journey with a blend of clean vocals, electronic elements, and heavy breakdowns, maintaining the emotional intensity of the first volume while exploring new territories.
The EP opens with “Satellite“, an atmospheric track featuring gorgeous clean vocals. “As We Collide” brings in more electronic elements and teases listeners with a softer start before reintroducing the heaviness they got us used to. “Forlorn“, a surprising interlude, features rap-style spoken words over a clean guitar background, showcasing the band’s versatility.
“Deadweight“, featuring Concealed Reality, mixes electronic elements with clean and harsh vocals, culminating in an intense final breakdown. “Suffocate” opens with atmospheric sounds of waves and seagulls, creating an immersive atmosphere with a slower tempo and captivating chorus. Despite its heaviness, the song is beautiful, with atmospheric sounds providing moments to breathe before slamming listeners back down.
Vol.3: Laments (May 24, 2024)
Just released yesterday, “Vol.3: Laments” marks the latest installment in Ice Sealed Eyes‘ trilogy. This EP continues to push the boundaries of their sound, blending intense heaviness with intricate electronic elements and ethereal vocals. The spotlight is on this newest release, which demands a closer, song-by-song exploration.
Needles
EN
“Needles” bursts onto the scene with unrelenting force, immediately captivating the senses with its heavy intensity. With just 2:19, this track wastes no time in making its mark. From its thunderous opening to its explosive climax, “Needles” is a whirlwind of sound that leaves us with stank face. The electronic elements intertwine seamlessly with the driving rhythm, creating an atmosphere that is as intoxicating as it is exhilarating. The groovy double kick propels the track forward one last time.
The Pond
EN
At first, “The Pond” lulls us into a false sense of tranquility with its soft, delicate beginning. But then the drums come in, letting us know that this calm facade is only temporary. It is soon shattered as the track evolves into a swirling maelstrom of sound. Atmospheric (word that fits these EPs so well) layers mingle with etheral background vocals, creating an otherworldly ambiance that is both captivating and haunting. The transition into the breakdown is seamless, drawing us deeper into this sonic landscape they created. With its intricate and dark layers, “The Pond” is definitely a mesmerizing journey.
Bloom
EN
“Bloom“, featuring Guillaume Nicolas from the French hardcore band FreeHowling, marks a strong departure from the expected with its heavily electronic distorted beginning. Layers of processed voices and pulsating beats create a sense of tension and anticipation. As the track unfolds, the clean vocals emerge with the chorus which adds a human element to the electronic and heavy chaos.
Guillaume brings a certain authenticity to the song, instilling each note with raw passion. With its fusion of electronic elements and hardcore sensibilities, “Bloom” is a testament to Ice Sealed Eyes‘ willingness to push the boundaries of their sound.
Inner Wings
EN
“Inner Wings” is a tour de force of sound and emotion, drawing us into its immersive world from the very first beat. The blast beat, polyvalent vocals and expansive soundscapes create a sense of grandeur and envelop us in a sonic embrace.
As the track progresses, the drum & bass elements add a new dimension to the music, injecting a sense of urgency and momentum. The vocals soaring above the atmospheric soundscape, convey a range of emotions from anguish to ecstasy. With its satisfying drum patterns and slow-paced ending, “Inner Wings” is a journey of self-discovery and exploration, inviting us to lose themselves in its depths.
Vol.3: Laments” wraps up the trilogy with a mix of heavy and atmospheric sounds, featuring collaborations and unexpected twists. It’s a fitting conclusion that leaves us both satisfied and eager for more.
Destined for greatness
EN
Ice Sealed Eyes has crafted a remarkable trilogy with “Vol.1: Torments“, “Vol.2: Fragments“, and “Vol.3: Laments“. Each EP is an emotional journey, blending heaviness with beauty and showcasing their ability to surprise and captivate. From brutal breakdowns to serene interludes, these EPs offer a diverse and immersive experience. Will they continue this trilogy?
Keep an eye on Ice Sealed Eyes—they’re destined for greatness.