Created In The Image Of Suffering

Local! Originally a solo effort from Kristina Esfandiari (formerly of Whirr), King Woman has evolved into a full band that makes dense, droning shoegaze/doom metal. This release was recorded at the Atomic Garden in East Palo Alto and inspired by themes of religious and mental torment. It’s got a certain gloom that feels transcendent, tortured, and deeply human. Another great release from Relapse Records.

Related: Marriages, Chelsea Wolfe, True Widow ‘Avvolgere’

1. (1:09) Citios—The words “created in the image of suffering” looped over increasing noise.
2. (3:10) Utopia—Dense, urgent, evil.
3. (3:54) ** Deny—Brighter, more melodic, with echoing vocals.
4. (3:40) *** Shame—Languishing, dreamlike, desperate.
5. (7:59) **** Hierophant—Nostalgic, widescreen dream rock. Music for driving aimlessly as the sun sets.
6. (4:37) ** Worn—Hazy, pummeling, driving.
7. (6:16) Manna—Starts off like a church choir. Ripping guitars, melted voices.
8. (8:05) *** Hem—Slow, tortured, apocalyptic. Choral finish.