Get ready for a musical journey that's as electrifying as the third rail of the New York City Subway! Ordeals' debut album, 'Third Rail Prayer', is a thrilling ride that will either propel them to success or leave them dead in the water.
This NYC trio, formed in 2011, has been steadily building their reputation with two EPs and a split release. Influenced by the Australian metal scene, Ordeals promises a unique blend of black and death metal, with a touch of quiet grandeur. But here's where it gets controversial... will this album be their breakthrough moment, or will it leave fans wanting more?
While Ordeals may not have widespread recognition, their musical prowess is undeniable. Bassist/guitarist Illuminated delivers blackened riffs that surge and flow like a sturgeon beneath the surface, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats. Tracks like "Throes" showcase their ability to shift tempos and keys effortlessly. The tremolo-heavy passages on "Suffer Cursed Ordeals" draw comparisons to Abominator, creating a sense of urgency that's hard to ignore.
Drummer Bellum is a master of his craft, utilizing a wide range of percussive techniques. His dynamic and energetic playing drives the album forward, setting the tone and guiding transitions with precision. Bellum's kitwork is a highlight, keeping the album engaging from start to finish.
"Third Rail Prayer" exudes a sectarian, ritualistic energy. Vocalist Zealous Hellspell's full-throated roars and shouts evoke clandestine religious ceremonies, reminiscent of Uada or Rotting Christ. The album's doom-laden moments, such as "Throes" and "Triumph", build tension with masterful riffcraft, drawing comparisons to Candlemass. The patient bass and relentless drums on "Scorn Ceremony" paint a dark and eerie picture, harkening back to the cult vibes of Choir.
And this is the part most people miss... Ordeals truly shines when they embrace their ceremonial, almost liturgical atmosphere. The synergy between Hellspell's fanatical vocals and Illuminated's and Bellum's instrumental prowess is where the magic happens. Tracks like "Third Rail Prayer" and "Emerge" showcase their ability to create a spiraling, dionysian fervor reminiscent of Kvaen's "The Funeral Pyre".
However, the album's prime criticism lies in its atmospheric, doom-laden high points. When Ordeals channels Solitude Aeternus or Solstice, their measured and dignified songcraft reaches new heights. It's in these moments that the album truly excels, creating a palpable atmosphere that's hard to match. Unfortunately, the black and death metal portions of the album feel lackluster in comparison, leaving listeners yearning for more of their signature sound.
"Third Rail Prayer" is a showcase of Ordeals' versatility, but it's their high (blackened) doom that truly stands out. This debut album serves as a proof of concept, but it lacks focus. If Ordeals can harness their strengths and build upon their stately, doomy songcraft and ceremonious atmosphere, they have the potential to create something extraordinary in a sea of good. Ordeals is a band to watch, and their future releases are highly anticipated.
Rating: 3.0/5.0
DR: 8 | Format Reviewed: 320 kbps mp3
Labels: Eternal Death (https://eternaldeath.bandcamp.com/)
Websites: Bandcamp (https://ordealsascendant.bandcamp.com/) | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/OrdealsAscendant/) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ordealsofficial/)
Releases Worldwide: September 26th, 2025
