RHÛN - Burial Pact

I just got a chance to sit down and listen to the new EP—Burial Pact. I was introduced to RHÛN two years ago with their album Conveyance in Death, which I thought was an outstanding display of musicianship. After hearing this EP, I was quite shocked because it seems that they have changed their style while still staying true to black metal. Now, they have infused elements of doom, psychedelia, and melodic textures. The project, helmed by Aaron Charles of Falls of Rauros, showcases a unique ability to blend genre influences into a cohesive and immersive journey.

There are four tracks on the EP:

1. Initiation 2.Burial Pact 3.Seeking the Fire 4.Gleaming Swords Howl

Starting the EP is Initiation. I always love an album or EP that starts with a strong atmosphere. It sets the mood and gives a deeper insight into the band's creative direction. Burial Pact seamlessly transitions from the ending of Initiation, making it feel like one continuous piece. The guitar tone in the intro is fantastic—down-tuned, chunky death/doom-styled riffing at the perfect tempo for headbanging. I also really like the subtle single-string melody played high on the neck; it complements the intro perfectly. The song shifts into a solid 4/4 beat after a simple yet satisfying drum fill, with tremolo-picked melodies layered over the top. The transition into double bass drumming, accompanied by precise cymbal work, is one of my favorite moments on the track.


Check the video here

track3:

I really enjoyed how the intro for Seeking the Fire sounded—very distant, almost as if there's a wall in front of you. The fact that the hi-hats are open and hit hard yet still sound muted creates a cool effect. Small details like the two well-placed pick scrapes add depth, making the release stand out to me. After this, the main riff explodes into a slow-paced headbanger, easily my favorite moment on the album. The tone is absolutely perfect. Following this, the addition of haunting synths and layered vocals elevates the track even further. The double bass drums and ride cymbal work in one section are especially effective. The swirling, modulated guitar effects throughout the album are immersive, making this a rewarding listen, especially with headphones.

Track4: The final track, Gleaming Swords Howl, starts off warm, cycling through four chords for four bars. Then, a high-pitched, modulated guitar enters, creating a melancholic and depressive vibe. There’s a subtle shaking sound in the background, and soon, a second and third guitar layer in, each contributing to an evolving soundscape. This track fully explores the possibilities of modulated guitars, making it feel like an otherworldly passage. It’s the perfect way to close the EP, leaving the listener with a lasting impression.

All in all, this EP took me on a journey I’ll gladly revisit time and time again. From the very first note, RHÛN establishes a dark, immersive atmosphere that grips the listener and refuses to let go. With tight, dynamic drumming driving each track forward, rich modulated guitar tones layering depth and intensity, and powerful vocals that cut through the mix with raw emotion, Burial Pact is as relentless as it is captivating. Burial Pact earns a solid 9/10. This marks a new chapter for RHÛN, and I’ll be following their future releases even more closely. What a banger!


Grading system.

9-10: Exceptional

7-8: Good, Great

5-6: Average, Decent

3-4: Fair, Mediocre

1-2: Poor, Subpar

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