03/02/2014 13:12

Below

Epic doom metallers Below's debut album 'Across the Dark River' out in April

Epic doom metal band, Below, spent the end of 2013 at Sonic Train Studios in Sweden with none other than Andy La Rocque (King Diamond) to record their debut full-length album 'Across the Dark River'. The band is finally prepared to unveil the album title, art, and release the first single from the record. 'Portal' is streaming now on metalblade.com/below, where fans can also pre-order copies of 'Across the Dark River' on CD, vinyl and digital downloads. The album will be released on April 11th in Europe via Metal Blade Records.

Below offers a brief quote about the first single, 'Portal': "It's a song about being in the presence of spirits, entering another dimension, a portal to the dead."

Below hails from Sweden and music has influences from late Black Sabbath, Candlemass, and King Diamond, so going with Andy La Rocque as the producer was a clear choice for the group. La Rocque added: "This is one of the heaviest bands I have worked with in the studio in a very long time. And always great to work with great musicians!"

Not much is known about the Swedish quintet, however they are working with Tobias Rosén - bass player of fellow Metal Blade Records artists Noctum - of Howlin' Owl Productions. Below started writing songs and in November of 2012 and a 4-track EP was recorded at Deep Blue Studios in Sweden. By this time, Tobias of Howlin' Owl Productions heard them and asked to act as manager for the band. The EP was sent to various magazines, labels and people in the business and was praised by everybody who gave the songs a listen. Metal Hammer awarded the EP a 9/10 rating.

Below is:
Zeb - vocals
Paud - guitar
Berg - guitar
Hedman - bass
Doc - drums

(source: Metal Blade Records)