Get ready to have your ears blown off—Tarlung, the Austrian doom metal powerhouse, is back with Axis Mundi, and it’s a game-changer. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this their most mature work to date, or just a polished iteration of their signature sludge? Let’s dive in.
Since bursting onto the scene in 2013 with their self-titled debut—released a mere six months after forming and without a single live show under their belts—Tarlung has been a force to reckon with. With two more full-lengths (Beyond the Black Pyramid in 2017 and Architect in 2021) and a solid touring history, the band now delivers their fourth album in nearly five years. Known for their thick, resinous doom and smoky sludge, Tarlung has always been about the almighty riff. But Axis Mundi raises the stakes, hinting at a band evolving beyond their roots. Would this album be more of the same, or a pivotal ‘center’ in their discography, bridging their past and future?
The answer lies in the details. Guitarists Rotten and Phillip Seiler still deliver ear-shattering, swampy riffs that bristle with raw power (think “State Noise” and “Between the Earth and Moon”), but there’s a noticeable shift. Their sound is less fuzzy, more refined, with bluesy swagger creeping in (as heard in “Swans”). Seiler’s Akerfeldt-inspired roars remain a cornerstone, paired with Marian Weibl’s relentless drumming, creating the sonic weight Tarlung is celebrated for. Fans of Crowbar, High on Fire, and Dopethrone will feel right at home—but Axis Mundi isn’t just a rehash. It introduces elements of psychedelia and vocal experimentation, signaling a bold step forward.
And this is the part most people miss: tracks like “Burning Out” and “Sea of Drowned Souls” redefine Tarlung’s sound. The former opens with an airy, soft-strummed melody and clean vocals, evoking a serene, almost pastoral vibe—imagine lying in a field, watching sunlight filter through dew-kissed daffodils. Even when the track intensifies with chugging riffs and Seiler’s growls, the warmth remains. “Sea of Drowned Souls” takes it further, blending mournful melodies with clean vocals from Thérèse Lanz and Casey Rogers of Mares of Thrace, creating an Alice in Chains-esque atmosphere. The vocal interplay between Seiler and Lanz is particularly striking, with Lanz’s blackened screams countering Seiler’s guttural growls. These tracks aren’t just highlights—they’re the heart of Axis Mundi.
At just thirty-eight minutes, the album is a concise yet immersive experience. Tracks like “Full Circle” showcase Seiler channeling his inner Matt Pike (High on Fire), while the album closer, “Axis Mundi,” delivers a Crowbar-esque pounding. Yes, there are moments where the melodies feel slightly muddled—the bluesy riff in “Swans” comes to mind—but they’re minor hiccups in an otherwise stellar ride. With repeated listens, the album’s laid-back melodies and crushing riffs sink their claws in, making it impossible not to hit replay.
Here’s the kicker: Axis Mundi isn’t just for die-hard Tarlung fans. If you’re new to the party, this is the perfect entry point. As someone who hadn’t explored their earlier work before this review, I can confidently say Tarlung has won me over. After diving into their discography, it’s clear—Axis Mundi is their best work yet. A slow-paced, riff-heavy journey wrapped in blankets of crushing warmth, it’s a satisfying experience from start to finish.
But what do you think? Is Axis Mundi a masterpiece of evolution, or just a polished take on their usual sludge? Let’s debate in the comments.
Rating: 3.5/5.0
DR: 6 | Format Reviewed: 320 kb/s mp3
Label: Argonauta Records
Websites: Bandcamp | Facebook
Releases Worldwide: January 30th, 2026
