Shape of Despair

Finnish funeral doom metal band formed as Raven and later renamed Shape of Despair. Known for extremely slow tempos, overwhelming atmosphere and a mix of cavernous male vocals and delicate female vocalizations.

Formed originally as Raven (name change to Shape of Despair noted in reviews). Female vocals by Natalie Koskinen are regularly mentioned; Pasi Koskinen (ex-Amorphis, ex-Ajattara) is referenced in reviews as a vocal contributor. The band is frequently cited among the forefront of funeral doom.

Three DeBaser reviews present Shape of Despair as a leading Finnish funeral doom act. The reviews emphasize overwhelming atmosphere, extreme slow tempos and bleak lyrical mood. Key albums discussed are Shades Of..., Angels of Distress and Illusion's Play. Vocals (male grunts and delicate female vocalizations) and oppressive production are repeatedly highlighted.

For:Fans of funeral doom, doom metal, dark ambient and melancholic metal listeners.