True Widow – As High As the Highest Heavens And From The Center To the Circumference of the Earth

Dallas-based doomy slow-core trio True Widow have apparently attempted to convey the sprawling loneliness and desolate beauty of the American prairie on this, their second full album. Certainly the material's resolutely sombre pace and swirling roominess is somewhat representative of the approach of darkness on a desert drive, but this material only really succeeds when the band turn their hands to stronger melodies, such as on second track Blooden Horse, or later on Wither.

The material attempts to be lead-heavy in places but it doesn't feel entirely natural, whereas the combination of hymnal dirge with vocal melody is excellent and favourably reminiscent of early Low. It's a big noise for two guys and a girl but needs those injections of sweetness to keep it interesting. For first-time listeners, be advised to perhaps skip track one, Jackyl, until you're more familiar with the material, as it's a slightly meandering opening to an otherwise effective record. [Chris Cusack]