What makes New Moon by Swallow the Sun notable?

'New Moon' received critical acclaim, solidifying Swallow the Sun's reputation in the doom metal genre, particularly noted by publications like Metal Hammer. The album's blend of melodic death and doom elements influenced subsequent bands within the scene and contributed to its underground cult status, charting well in Finland's music rankings. By the time 'New Moon' was released in 2009, Swallow the Sun had solidified their position within the Finnish doom metal scene with three prior albums. This album marked a continuation of their signature sound while also introducing more atmospheric elements, following their 2007 release 'Hope.' Their evolution into darker themes and richer compositions showcases their artistic maturation during this phase.

New Moon works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, layered, dense sonic textures and contemplative late-night moods.

How many songs are on New Moon?

New Moon has 8 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

Released 17 years ago this November

New Moon

Swallow the Sun · 2009

53 min · 8 tracks · doom metal

Ethereal melodies entwined with crushing riffs create a haunting landscape of despair and beauty throughout this doom metal odyssey.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
These Woods Breathe Evil — The opening track sets an ominous tone with its slow build-up, showcasing the band's ability to blend melody and heaviness seamlessly.
→
Sleepless Swans — This track features haunting vocals and intricate guitar work, embodying the album's themes of sorrow and loss while standing out for its emotional depth.
→
New Moon — The titular track encapsulates the album's essence, merging melancholic melodies with a powerful crescendo that reflects existential despair.
→
Weight of the Dead — Closing the album, this track delivers an epic length and exploration of heavy themes, leaving listeners with a lingering sense of melancholy.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album blends melodic death and doom elements effectively, showcasing strong songwriting and production.

What we noticed

The album opens with a slow, atmospheric build-up that gradually introduces heavy guitar riffs and growled vocals, establishing a dark mood.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections where melodies intertwine with layered guitar harmonies, creating a haunting soundscape.
The pacing varies significantly; tracks like 'Falling World' maintain a steady tempo while others, such as 'Weight of the Dead', shift between slow dirges and faster passages.

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

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

long, immersive listening sessions
layered, dense sonic textures
contemplative late-night moods
dynamic emotional journeys

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'New Moon' was released in 2009, Swallow the Sun had solidified their position within the Finnish doom metal scene with three prior albums. This album marked a continuation of their signature sound while also introducing more atmospheric elements, following their 2007 release 'Hope.' Their evolution into darker themes and richer compositions showcases their artistic maturation during this phase.
Stylistic neighbors: My Dying Bride· Anathema· Paradise Lost