XIII Doors are a hard rock/metal band from Shannon, Co Clare in the West of Ireland who comprise of DJ O’Sullivan (vocals / guitars), Flash Murphy (guitars), Pat “Pablo” Byrne (bass) and Cian “Whoasley” O’Sullivan (drums). The band release their eagerly anticipated debut album `Into the Unknown` this month.
The album opens with `Unleash The Beast` a number which aspires to motivate listeners to cast aside apprehensions and embrace self-belief, urging them to pursue a purposeful life regardless of the challenges that may arise. It`s a powerful thumping pounding statement of intent with some cracking guitar riffs and brief solos and a real marker to lay down for what`s to follow. We enjoy a really expansive offering on `Sorceress of Lies` which hints at being mislead by a partner who now feels as if they were an enchantress and being left to deal with the consequences of that devastation.
I read that DJ O’Sullivan has a deep appreciation for traditional Irish, Arabic, and Hindustani music and the band shares this on `Make a Life Again` which blends those middle eastern influences with a heavy rock sensibility. This fusion with oud or rabab gives the track a superbly enticing feel with vocals that express a kind of frustration at all the conflict in the world and how we`ve let others wreak havoc on the planet. An encouragement of individuals across the globe to pursue lives of purpose and happiness follows with `Lead The Way` a searing fast paced reflective submission.
`Face The Truth` is a controlled invective against a tyrant elect shared across a fairly blistering rock out with “hey hey hey`s ” on route made for chanting and some superbly appealing guitar chord riffs. There`s a slower pace to title track `Into the Unknown` but it`s no less powerful for it. Another contemplative listen that encourages inner confidence and self-belief.
The band have shared that `See How Far You’ve Come` is a “reflection on life’s journey, seen through the eyes of someone who hasn’t always had an easy path, but has made changes for the better. It’s about recognising that even during tough times, progress is being made. Only when you look back can you truly appreciate how far you’ve come. It’s a reminder to be proud of who you are and to embrace the journey you’re on.” A delightful slow burn with many layers that I found wonderfully mesmerising. This long player closes out with `Inside` a final meditative pounding thumping work out with some hooks and choruses that will have you singing along to.
I have an affinity with County Clare as my Dad was born in Doonbeg and I have many happy memories of annual holidays taken in the Banner County so it was a real joy to finally discover a hard rock band from the County as I can only recall one other non-traditional Irish music outfit with Celtic Folk rockers Stockton`s Wing.
`Into The Unknown` is an alluring listen with numbers about facing uncertainty but having the confidence and self-belief to embrace an uncertain future.
I read that the quartet have been influenced by artists such as Alter Bridge, Alice In Chains, Tremonti and Daughtry and for me if you enjoy bands such as those , you`ll love XIII Doors.
`Into The Unknown` and XIII Doors ensure that the West`s far from asleep these days.
Rating 8.5/10
