REVIEW: Lowen - Do Not Go to War with the Demons Of Mazandaran

Lowen’s 'Do Not Go to War with the Demons of Mazandaran' stands as a profound blend of progressive doom metal and Persian mythology. The six-track album not only offers a musical journey through rich, atmospheric soundscapes but also carries a powerful social message that speaks directly to the ongoing struggles of women in Iran, tying into the Woman, Life, Freedom movement. The band’s willingness to tackle heavy subject matter through both music and narrative sets this release apart from more conventional metal albums.

At the heart of the album are tracks like 'Corruption on Earth' and 'Waging War Against God', which boldly criticise the death sentences imposed on women protesting against the Islamic Republic of Iran. These songs reflect the bravery and defiance of women who are fighting for their rights and lives, adding a layer of political and cultural relevance that is deeply intertwined with the music. The album resonates as both a progressive journey and a protest, unafraid to address contemporary issues through a mythological lens. 

Lowen’s fusion of heavy, doom-laden riffs with Middle Eastern influences creates an atmosphere that feels both ancient and modern. While the genre itself can lean toward a slower side of metal, 'Do Not Go to War with the Demons of Mazandaran' is a dynamic record that shifts between soaring, epic moments and brooding, weighty doom sections. The band creates a carefully balanced soundscape, with atmospheric elements that build tension and allow for release in equal measure. The combination of low-end guitar riffs and intricate melodies works to transport the listener into the album’s mythological world while never straying from its metal roots.

Vocalist Nina Saeidi’s performance is one of the standout elements of the record. Singing in both English and Persian, Saeidi’s powerful, multilingual delivery serves as the album’s emotional core. Her ability to seamlessly shift between languages adds a level of authenticity and depth to the band’s narrative. The blend of harsh, almost guttural vocals with moments of delicate, clean singing creates a layered and nuanced vocal performance that complements the complex instrumentation beneath.

Tracks like 'May Your Ghost Drink Pure Water' and the closing song 'Ghazal For The Embrace Of Fire' showcase Lowen’s heavier side, where the riffs are at their most ferocious and the semi-blast beats drive the songs forward with a boiling intensity. These songs in particular highlight the band’s ability to blend aggression with a sense of grand scale. The intensity of these tracks contrasts sharply with the more atmospheric and melodic sections of the album, showing off the band’s versatility.

'The Seed That Dreamed of Its Own Creation' is a thought-provoking track that delves into themes of existence, self-awareness, and the interconnectedness of life. Musically, it features a blend of haunting melodies and heavy riffs, creating a dynamic atmosphere that reflects the philosophical undertones of the lyrics. The track encapsulates everything within Lowen’s signature style, combining progressive doom elements with a narrative depth that invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys of creation and purpose. 

Vocalist Nina Saeidi explains that the track 'Najang Bah Divhayeh Mazandaram' is a warning that serves as a pivotal point in the myth of Mazandaran, a realm in Persian mythology filled with djinn and wealth. Translated, the warning is ‘Do not go to war with the demons of Mazandaran’, the album title. This phrase warns King Kay Kavus against his ill-fated conquest. The song weaves these mythological themes into Lowen's progressive fusion of doom metal and Iranian music, enhancing the narrative with a modern poetic twist. 

At its core, this album is more than just a collection of songs, it is a statement. Lowen has crafted a piece of art that transcends genre boundaries and speaks to both personal and political struggles. 'Do Not Go to War...' succeeds in offering listeners a deeply immersive experience that is made up of equal parts sonic and emotional. In a year that is already filled with notable metal releases, 'Do Not Go to War with the Demons of Mazandaran' still manages to stand out not only for its innovative sound but also for its courage in addressing difficult, real-world issues. We believe this album is a bold and significant contribution to the metal scene and is a must-listen - not only for fans of progressive metal, but for anyone looking for music with depth, substance, and emotional power.

Words: Vee Richardson

Photos: Lowen