Thosar – Elementa LP (Grazil Records)

It has been a while since the Austrian duo Thosar released “Elementa,” their second full-length carrying five hard-hitting tracks, and now this record arrived at our headquarters for review. Released by Grazil Records in 2022, “Elementa” explores the expansive universe built upon a comprehensive collection of underground music genres. Perhaps sludge comes to mind first, as this style is widely distributed all over this material, but you’ll notice how stoner, doom, or black metal found their way into this sonic equation. It’s a wisely assembled amalgam that works to the advantage of this material, ensuring an outstanding listening experience for even the pickiest sludge fans. While sludge might be their primary weapon of choice, don’t be surprised when the band goes into black metal realms all of a sudden because their music arrives in all shapes and sizes.

The black metal influence is all over the place, and it’s vividly hearable in the vocal delivery. Those black metal screams command attention and guide the listening apparatus during particular moments, especially when Thosar are not experimenting with their music. This vocal technique appeals to the sonic landscape, adding another touch of rawness, abrasiveness, aggression, and power. In the meantime, the guitars shine with many expertly composed riffs. Although these sonic maneuvers define Thosar’s sound, you’ll also notice many melodies, harmonies, themes, accentuations, and experimentations along the way. The guitars resonate with tremendous heaviness and power, ensuring the listener receives a proper colossal wall of sound. You’ll also notice how every upcoming number becomes even more intricate due to these guitar works.

Although a duo, Thosar included the bass guitar in the mix, introducing even more power to the mix. You’ll hear how equally complex, audible, heavily distorted low-ends roar beneath the guitars, offering more heaviness, clarity, and depth while binding guitars and drums together. The rhythm section also plays a significant role in this magnificent sonic voyage. You’ll hear how the expertly performed, expertly composed, well-accentuated rhythmic patterns keep everything in line while dictating groove and pace. The collection of excellent beats, breaks, fills, and other percussive acrobatics propel these tracks to new heights, and this album wouldn’t sound this good without it. Each band member plays a significant role in this sonic equation, ensuring this material will appeal to your ears whatever underground music genre you prefer.

“Heresy;” “Toxic Masculinity,” and “Resignation” are undoubtedly highlights of this album, but you should also pay attention to the remainder of this material, as Thosar put heart and soul into it. “Elementa” shines with many impressive moments where their brilliant ideas and exceptional musicianship collide, creating a colossal wall of well-articulated, superbly performed sludge music. Therefore, head to Grazil Records and grab this gem on vinyl! You won’t be disappointed.