What makes Harbinger of Metal by Reverend Bizarre notable?

This album is notable for its significant influence on the underground doom metal community, attracting attention for its ambitious song lengths and conceptual depth. It received positive reviews from various metal publications, affirming Reverend Bizarre's position as key figures in the revival of classic doom metal aesthetics. Released in 2003, Harbinger of Metal marked Reverend Bizarre's third studio album, solidifying their reputation within the doom metal scene following their earlier successes with In the Rectory of the Bizarre Reverend in 2002. The album showcased their evolving sound while maintaining a commitment to lengthy compositions and dark themes.

Who is Harbinger of Metal for?

Harbinger of Metal works well if you're into immersive long-form explorations, heavy riffs for focused listening and haunting melodies in solitude.

How many songs are on Harbinger of Metal?

Harbinger of Metal has 7 tracks, running approximately 74 minutes.

Harbinger of Metal

Reverend Bizarre · 2003

74 min · 7 tracks · doom metal

A sprawling journey through heavy riffs and haunting atmospheres that encapsulates the essence of doom metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Strange Horizon — At nearly 14 minutes long, this track exemplifies the band's ability to weave complex narratives and intricate musical passages, showcasing both their technical prowess and thematic depth.
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From the Void — This epic 20-minute composition embodies the quintessential doom experience, merging haunting melodies with crushing riffs that transport listeners into an immersive sonic landscape.
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The Wandering Jew — With its dynamic shifts and lyrical storytelling, this track stands out as a narrative centerpiece, exploring themes of exile and eternal wandering through rich guitar work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases lengthy tracks with heavy riffs and a cohesive atmosphere typical of doom metal.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of slow tempos and heavy guitar riffs, characteristic of doom metal.
Vocals are delivered in a deep, resonant style that complements the dense instrumentation throughout the record.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

immersive long-form explorations
heavy riffs for focused listening
haunting melodies in solitude
patient builds rewarding deep focus

Maybe skip if you

seeking quick, catchy tracks
prefer upbeat, fast-paced music

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2003, Harbinger of Metal marked Reverend Bizarre's third studio album, solidifying their reputation within the doom metal scene following their earlier successes with In the Rectory of the Bizarre Reverend in 2002. The album showcased their evolving sound while maintaining a commitment to lengthy compositions and dark themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Electric Wizard· Candlemass· My Dying Bride