Trouble cover

Trouble

Trouble · 1990

42 min · 10 tracks · doom metal

Heavy riffs and haunting melodies converge, creating a dense atmosphere that intertwines despair with moments of transcendence.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Wolf — This track features an infectious groove coupled with lyrical themes of inner struggle and darkness, encapsulating the essence of Trouble's sound.
  • →
    R.I.P. — With its driving rhythm and powerful vocal delivery, this track exemplifies Trouble's ability to blend heaviness with melodic hooks, showcasing their signature style.
  • →
    Black Shapes of Doom — This song stands out for its eerie atmosphere and intricate arrangements, highlighting the band’s talent for crafting immersive doom metal experiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

53 /100
Foothills
Higher than 40% of albums we've rated

The album combines heavy riffs with varied vocal styles, establishing a distinct sound in doom metal.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a slow, heavy riff that establishes a dark atmosphere, which is maintained throughout the first half of the record.
  • Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections that emphasize the dense guitar work and layered melodies.
  • The vocals often alternate between clean singing and more aggressive styles, creating a dynamic contrast within individual songs.
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
5/10

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, consistent energy levels
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • introspective and contemplative moods
  • dark, atmospheric soundscapes

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on February 13, 1990, 'Trouble' marked Trouble's self-titled debut album after several years of honing their sound. This album arrived during the band's early years when they were establishing themselves in the burgeoning doom metal scene following their formation in 1979.
Stylistic neighbors
Candlemass· My Dying Bride· Electric Wizard

Tracklist

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

  • 1 At the End of My Daze 3:11
  • 2 The Wolf 4:34
  • 3 Psychotic Reaction 3:14
  • 4 A Sinner’s Fame 4:18
  • 5 The Misery Shows (Act II) 7:21
  • 6 R.I.P. 4:08
  • 7 Black Shapes of Doom 3:47
  • 8 Heaven on My Mind 4:09
  • 9 E.N.D. 2:23
  • 10 All Is Forgiven 5:10

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata