Drone metal is a subgenre characterized by its heavy, distorted guitars, slow tempo, and repetition, creating a dense, hypnotic atmosphere. Emerging in the 1990s, it evolved from the fusion of doom metal, stoner rock, and ambient music. The genre's popularity peaked in the 2000s, with a focus on sonic texture and ritualistic intensity. Drone metal's cultural significance lies in its ability to evoke a sense of sonic overwhelm and catharsis, often exploring themes of existential crisis and spiritual seeking. Drawing from doom metal's heavy riffs and ambient music's atmospheric soundscapes, drone metal distinguishes itself through its use of repetition, feedback, and vocal minimalism, often featuring screamed or whispered vocals. This genre's slow-burning, immersive soundscapes set it apart from faster-paced metal styles, creating a unique, meditative listening experience that draws in listeners seeking sonic intensity and emotional release.

Cycle of the Dying Sun (Dawn of Ashen Realms)

Runemagick

Album - 9 Tracks - Released October 31, 2025