
“Perhaps it was too little, too late
We were already too broken, too hurt
But I want to thank you for a thousand kisses
That I can still feel on my face”
This part of the crushing lyrics in their newest single “Keep Me Longing” is enough to tell you what to expect with this new release from the Austrian Blackgaze outfit – Harakiri for the Sky. The two masterminds behind this amazing and somber project – M.S and J.J will be revealing their 8th Full-Length record nearing the end of the month.
I can only name a handful of band that have mastered the art of balancing sorrow with sheer destruction and resilience, quite like Harakiri For The Sky. “Scorched Earth“, from my point of view, after the first tracks alone kicks the listener in such a way that only bands similar to Agalloch can do, the intense descriptions and expressions of emotion, grief and despair are presented so well, that after the entire 67-minute runtime i left this album with goosebumps and somewhat sorrowful memories of the past. Whether it’s the weight of grief, the despair, or the struggles of personal demons, Scorched Earth doesn’t only focus on singular parts of human emotions like suffering but it also channels it into something raw, beautiful, and, surprisingly, uplifting.
The track “Heal Me” is an early standout, pulling listeners in with its ominous guitars and steady, pulsing drums that set the stage for a deeply emotive experience. It’s the kind of song that ignites something within, a slow-burning fire that resonates long after it ends. Meanwhile, “Without You I’m Just A Sad Song” begins with haunting piano notes that give way to a melodic guitar riff. J.J.’s vocals, as always, are deeply affecting, and in some way shine truly when needed, especially in the upcoming tracks…
The album’s strength lies in its ability to balance layers of complexity without losing its emotional core. The melancholic atmosphere, carried by intricate guitar melodies, feels almost oppressive at times, as if each track is burdened with more emotion than the vocals alone can convey. Yet this is where the magic lies: the instrumentation doesn’t just support the vocals—it elevates them, creating a cohesive soundscape that draws you deeper into the music.
Drumming is another major factor, and a work of art created by M.S, filling the spaces in the tracks with a precision and power that amplifies the emotional weight of each moment. The album’s blend of vocals, guitars, and drums that elevate Scorched Earth beyond just being a sad record. It feels like an emotional outpouring, especially with clean vocal sections that J.J. perfected in my opinion.
Nearing the end of this collection of melancholic tracks, it’s worth highlighting the exceptional production quality. Every detail, even the melodies buried beneath the intense drumming, remains crystal clear. For anyone going through a tough time, this record offers a hand, and a comforting shoulder to cry on and a loyal friend in the darkest moments.
Harakiri For the Sky – “Scorched Earth” will be released on January 24th via AOP Records.
Track Listing:
1. Heal Me
2. Keep Me Longing
3. Without You I’m Just a Sad Song
4. No Graves but the Sea
5. With Autumn I’ll Surrender
6. I Was Just Another Promise You Couldn’t Keep
7. Too Late for Goodbyes
8. Street Spirit (Fade Out)
Watch “Keep Me Longing” official music video here:

I have a passion for discovering and exploring Metal influenced music and artists, with a particular interest in rare and underground releases. My reviews and ratings will primarily cover music released from the genre of Metal, providing fresh perspectives and insights on the latest and most intriguing entries in the genre.