MONOLORD

"Neverending" (Relapse Records; 2026)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

"Neverending" is a steamroller of an album, with a crushing sound that pummels the listener so heavily I'm certain that many speakers will be destroyed in the process of playing this, especially when played too loud (which, by the way, is how this album should be played).

Laden with brutal, down-tuned guitars, thundering bass and pulverizing drums—and layered with smooth, ethereal vocals and razor-accurate leads—the eight tracks on this album were apparently designed to destroy rather than to simply entertain. They brim with stoner fuzz, epic, atmospheric soundscapes (three of which run over seven minutes each) and an overall sound that is bigger than life. Paced with the deadly intent of Godzilla's footfalls, "Neverending" wanders into your listening space, stomps it flat, and leaves you wanting more.

If I have any concern about this album, it's that some tracks sound a little similar to others but, in this case, that's not a bad thing. And the final track, "It's Neverending," really stands out. Featuring former Entombed bassist Jörgen Sandström, (also of Grave, Domedagen and Firespawn), this track is rawer, edgier and darker than anything else that comes before it, but fits perfectly as the album's closer.

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Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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