Of Stone, Wind and Pillor cover

Of Stone, Wind and Pillor

Agalloch · 2001

28 min · 5 tracks · black metal

A haunting blend of atmospheric black metal and dark folk, where ethereal melodies intertwine with harsh textures and profound lyrical depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Of Stone, Wind, and Pillor — The title track encapsulates the essence of the EP with its expansive soundscapes and emotive transitions, setting a template for Agalloch's signature style.
  • →
    Haunting Birds — This track features delicate acoustic elements juxtaposed with heavier instrumentation, illustrating the band's ability to create tension and beauty simultaneously.
  • →
    A Poem by Yeats — An evocative interpretation of W.B. Yeats' work that highlights Agalloch's literary influences while blending spoken word and music to deepen atmospheric resonance.

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

This EP effectively blends atmospheric elements with black metal, establishing a unique sound that resonates within its genre.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a slow, atmospheric build that introduces layered guitars and distant vocals, setting a haunting tone.
  • The second track features a shift to more aggressive drumming and harsh vocals, contrasting with the ethereal melodies present in the opening.
  • The EP concludes with a spoken word piece that incorporates elements of dark folk, creating a stark departure from the preceding tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • steady pacing with gradual build
  • haunting melodies for reflection
  • immersive listening experience required
  • poignant atmosphere for solitude

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
Of Stone, Wind and Pillor is Agalloch's debut EP, released in 2001 after the band's formation in 1995. This release marked their introduction to the metal scene, showcasing their unique fusion of genres that would characterize their future work.
Stylistic neighbors
Alcest· Wolves in the Throne Room· Opeth

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Of Stone, Wind, and Pillor 6:59
  • 2 Foliorum Viridium 2:42
  • 3 Haunting Birds 3:44
  • 4 Kneel to the Cross 5:54
  • 5 A Poem by Yeats 8:38

What to play next

The Mantle
Listen next

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Pale Folklore
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Pale Folklore

1999
Full Agalloch discography Artists like Agalloch
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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata