Hermit Dreams’ DESPERATE ANOMIES is a haunting, boundary-pushing debut that drags Norwegian metal into uncharted territory. Emerging from the shadowy underground of Norway’s scene, this experimental death/doom outfit—packed with seasoned players—delivers a bleak, introspective soundscape on their first full-length, released December 5, 2025 via Chaos Records.Clocking in around 35 minutes across 8 tracks (starting strong with “Trembling Heretic” and peaking in the abyss with cuts like “Directionless Gaze” and “Reach for the Void in Despair”), the album masterfully weaves traditional heavy guitars and crushing doom rhythms with wildly unconventional elements: banjo twang, weeping cello, upright bass, eerie theremin wails, and the droning shruti box. The result is a dissonant, atmospheric descent—think Neurosis-level heaviness meets avant-garde weirdness, with hints of Colin Marston’s mastering touch (he of Gorguts fame) adding that extra layer of polished menace.It’s brooding, tense, and emotionally raw, balancing slow-burn despair with bursts of intensity that feel both meditative and crushing. The non-metal instrumentation doesn’t feel gimmicky; instead, it amplifies the alienation and existential dread, creating textures that are genuinely fresh in the death/doom realm. Production is murky yet clear enough to let every strange detail breathe, making it immersive for late-night listens or full-volume immersion.As a debut, DESPERATE ANOMIES shows serious promise—it’s uncompromising, creative, and avoids falling into predictable sludge tropes. If you’re into experimental extremes like Oranssi Pazuzu, Blut Aus Nord, or even the weirder side of acts like Kayo Dot infused with doom heaviness, this will hit hard. Hermit Dreams isn’t just another band; they’re carving a unique path in the Nordic darkness.A bold, atmospheric standout in the 2025 underground. Highly recommended for those craving something beyond the ordinary.Overall rating: 8.5/10
Innovative instrumentation, crushing atmosphere, and genuine emotional weight— a standout experimental death/doom debut from Norway. Dive in if you dare.#DesperateAnomies #HermitDreams #ExperimentalDoom #DeathDoom #NorwegianMetal #NewRelease #AvantGardeMetal #ChaosRecords