Pegah
“If you want a picture of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human face—forever.” ― George Orwell, 1984
Caprahed, the solo Doom/Punk project of Phil Howlett, presents its second album, Empire, which explores themes of dominance and suppression. The cover art depicts a dystopian world where extraterrestrial beings dominate humanity. A spiked boot, symbolizing external control, crushes the skull of a ram—representing wisdom and protection—while barbed wire encircling the scene emphasizes confinement. The word “Empire” stamped on the boot’s sole symbolizes the sacrifice of knowledge under oppressive forces, creating a powerful visual metaphor for the album’s themes.
The opening track, “Phase IV”, introduces a low-tempo, guitar-driven sound paired with clean vocals that convey despair and desperation. Narrating destruction and the loss of life under oppressive rule, the track shifts toward rebellion and resistance in its final moments, hinting at hope amidst the bleakness. The longest track, “Masters and Slaves”, intensifies the theme of subjugation, with more aggressive vocals reflecting rage and frustration. The repeated refrain of the title underscores the stark divide between dominance and submission, leaving a haunting impression.
“Rebellion” brings a shift in tone, with its high-tempo rhythm, melodic guitar riffs, and energetic drums driving the theme of defiance. This track embodies strength and determination, marking a turning point in the album’s narrative. In contrast, “Until The End” begins with a gentle guitar melody and softer vocals, creating a reflective atmosphere. This emotionally charged track emphasizes resilience with lyrics like “We are the chosen ones“, serving as a poignant conclusion to the album’s intense journey.
Caprahed captures the essence of old-school Doom Metal, blending it seamlessly with Punk elements. Fans of iconic bands such as Black Sabbath and Candlemass will find much to appreciate in the thought-provoking and emotionally resonant Empire.
Label: Self-released
Release date: January 20, 2025
Website: https://caprahed.bandcamp.com/album/empire-caprahed-self-titled
Country: Australia
Score: a crunchy 4.0/5.0
Metal Eclipse Reviews 