Orthodox

A power trio from Spain known as Orthodox specializes in the shadowy art of extraordinarily slow, monumental doom drones. These are fashioned from solid, unyielding elements reminiscent of primary influences such as Earth, Boris, and Sunn O))), with the ensemble also embracing the latter's signature hooded monk robes. The group originated in Sevilla during 2004, established by vocalist and guitarist Ricardo Jimenez Gómez, bassist Marco Serrato Gallardo, and drummer B. Diaz Vera, each previously associated with The Forge, Degüello, and Tierra. Their debut full-length release arrived as 2006's Gran Poder via the independent Spanish imprint Alone Records. Southern Lord subsequently distributed this effort, along with its 2007 follow-up Amanecer en Puerta Oscura, across the United States. While both recordings feature minimal lyrics exploring themes of sin, oppression, and religious folklore, the second album marked a departure from strict doom conventions, incorporating avant-garde jazz elements drawn from John Coltrane.