Releasedate: 17-04-2026
Label: Season of Mist

Intro

Crippled Black Phoenix is back with “Sceaduhelm” – which means shadow helmet in Old English-, out this month.

With “Sceaduhelm“, Crippled Black Phoenix is inviting us to go inward, where they explore themes like emotional erosion, fatigue and collapse. This time, we are faced with the aftermath of a storm, the consequences rather than the action…

I have always admired CPB’s dark approach to things in their own way and so I was excited about this release. Let’s dig deep.

Review

From the first song “One Man Wall of Death”, “Sceaduhelm” builds up the dramatic tension right away. As the album continues, we find ourselves in certain situations, faced with ourselves and going inwards into the darker spiral. Emotionally and personally, things take an interesting twist after “The Void”, which is more like a bridge connecting two halves of the album, where the tone gets even darker and emotionally draining. It’s definitely not an easy album to digest and also proves that Crippled Black Phoenix is not afraid of experimenting both musically and psychologically.
Even though “Sceaduhelm” is dark and emotional, it’s not atmospheric or slow. Some songs are fast-paced where you will find yourself headbanging and even dancing, and in some other songs, you will slow down.

Musically and lyrically, this might be the strongest and the most creative CBP has ever been. As with previous albums, the mainman Justin Greaves remains the sole composer. However, the lyrics in the album were written by the vocalists themselves, where they bring their own emotions, expressions and interpretations. Combined with the band’s own style (inspired from various genres ranging from doom metal to post-rock and post-punk), this makes Sceaduhelm quite unique. As listeners, we will be drawn to the music but also the lyrics.

Outro

“Sceaduhelm” is one of the best albums of this year. Definitely recommended to the fans and lovers of the band, melancholy and doom. Get this one and enjoy the ride!

Highlights: Vampire Grave, Ravenettes, Beautiful Destroyer

Links:
Bandcamp