REVIEW: SUNN O))) - SUNN O)))

The kings of drone metal SUNN O))) are always caustic by design, with long songs of intense slow noise whilst often having no vocals. This new self-titled album is another release in line with their past work and will be adored by current fans - but is unlikely to convert anyone who hasn't understood them before.

Despite SUNN O))) functioning as a two piece, their sound is as complete as ever on these six tracks. They know what works for them and they stick to it. They create an atmosphere that no other band can come close to. Their drone creates a challenging sense of dread that when complete, creates a catharsis for completing their experience that then becomes addictive. Their pure brutality is their strong point, and this self-titled album has it in full. In a world where metal has pushed to be more SUNN O))) is doing less to achieve similar yet different results. Their sound is not built on complex riffs; instead it pushes the limit on what can be achieved by one simple note. It’s a textural experience that rewards the listener for listening to every second. Skipping through a track may feel as if little has changed, but on a complete listen every time a small change happens it hits harder.

There is an obvious element of repetition on the album, but that is how the band’s sound is designed. Every track is a complete work outlining what the band can do, but as a complete package, every little trick they use is shown in different light by contrasting with other songs on the album. Being a guitar forward album, it feels like a celebration of what electric guitar can do. Often the guitar feels tortured through the way it hits a listener’s ears. Moments sound almost like cries for help, a guitar being punished by the music it creates. This is what SUNN O))) excel in, a brutal sound of pain and anguish expressed through the power of electric guitar. This sound is otherworldly and engulfs the listener - it’s a parallel world of sound, where conventions do not exist, but the same emotions can. Intense moments build gradually; there is no way to jump into a song - you have to start and finish it in one go to feel any amount of the experience.

Being built different in the world of metal is one the best parts of SUNN O))), but is also why they aren’t for everyone. It fully makes sense why people would not like them; they defy conventions of what makes people enjoy music. Songs that last for nearly twenty minutes, with little diversity and nothing typically impressive, yet that is why they have their success. They do what other people won’t or can’t do. Their peculiarity is the main reason to listen. When you return to more traditional styles, you appreciate what they have, then in turn appreciate what SUNN O))) is.

SUNN O))) by SUNN O))) is more of what you expect from the band, and is another release of the same quality they have become known for. Heavy, scary, brutal and unrelenting; creating something truly strange and appealing. They still remain unique and a must listen band for anyone into bizarre music and refreshing sounds within metal. Consume them at the right time and you’ll understand why.

Score: 8/10 

SUNN O))) was released on 3rd April 2026 via Sub Pop.

Words: Will Freeman

Photos: Charles Peterson