Hooded Menace to release new album “Lachrymose Monuments of Obscuration”
Over the course of the last two decades, Hooded Menace has solidified its position as a pillar, not just a bridge, within the underground metal scene. The band’s seventh album, “Lachrymose Monuments of Obscuration”, maintains its morbid fascination with classic horror themes while also delving into new territories. Lead single “Portrait Without a Face” brings to life a neon-lit nightmare that unveils a fresh surprise from the band’s repertoire.
“Sucked into the realm of sweet damnation,” growls vocalist Harri Kuokkanen, his voice resonating through the darkness like a haunting melody. The accompanying video, directed by Tekla Valy with additional footage by Mikko Saastamoinen, captures the essence of classic horror with a modern twist. Hooded Menace’s signature death-doom sound is still prevalent on “Lachrymose Monuments of Obscuration”, with drummer Pekka Koskelo’s thunderous beats setting the stage for an intense listening experience.
The band’s artistic influences shine through on this album, with cover artist Wes Benscoter paying homage to director Amando de Ossorio’s the Blind Dead in all its ghastly glory. Drawing inspiration from ’80s heavy metal, particularly evident in their previous LP “The Tritonus Bell”, Hooded Menace infuses their music with a conspiratorial web of leads that bear a striking resemblance to King Diamond.
Despite their roots in Candlemass and Paradise Lost, Hooded Menace continues to push the boundaries of the death-doom genre. Founding member Lasse Pyykkö’s bone-crushing riffs provide a solid foundation for the album, but even he was surprised by the unexpected elements that emerged while crafting the lead single. The haunting moan of a cello adds an eerie ambiance to “Portrait Without a Face”, creating a sense of foreboding that persists throughout the album.
With its impending release on October 3rd, 2025, via Season of Mist, “Lachrymose Monuments of Obscuration” will be available in various formats, including digital download, CD Digipack, and a range of vinyl options. The tracklist features a collection of ominous titles, such as “Twilight Passages”, “Pale Masquerade”, and “Daughters of Lingering Pain”, each contributing to the overall atmosphere of dread and despair that characterizes Hooded Menace’s music.
As the band prepares to unveil their latest offering to the metal world, it is evident that Hooded Menace remains at the forefront of the death-doom genre. Drawing inspiration from classic horror films and ’80s heavy metal, they continue to evolve their sound while staying true to their roots. “Lachrymose Monuments of Obscuration” is a testament to their enduring legacy as pioneers of the underground metal scene.