Trouble’s second album “The Skull†is not a sophomore slump, it is the shedding of dead skin. In fact, the sophomore slump is a disease that rarely seems to strike in the Metal realm and was near non-existent for any half decent early 80’s Metal band. As bands were being picked up relatively quickly by labels during that time the overall trend was for bands to evolve to a heightened plane as they honed their skills over two or three releases. This is exactly the case here where Trouble emerged from a NWOBHM/Thrash Doom cocoon and blossoming into a soul destroying depressive machine. Now do not get us wrong, we love every second of “Psalm 9†and will stuff that down your throat too. This album is a cornerstone of Doom Metal. To dispel any fears right now we must look at the fact Trouble had written songs like “Gideonâ€, “Wickedness of Man†and “The Wish†before “Psalm 9†had even been released. Not only that, but the incredible guitar tone and Eric’s vocals have improved since the legendary debut even if that seems impossible to do. The lyrics are about Christian morality spiced with dark themes. And they come across as an ingenious Doom Metal ploy - instead of preachy songs, they appear more like depressing stories of death and hopeless salvation, If you are not struck down by the impact of Eric Wagner’s grief when singing the opening of “Pray For The Dead†you will never know true Doom. “Pray For The Deadâ€, “Fear No Evil†and especially “The Wish†are an incredible opening force. This is Doom Metal, in all it’s glory. The touches of NWOBHM and thrash are still there, but the tempo drops most of the time and the guitar tone is something that other bands of the period would never come close to achieving. There are neoclassical touches and harmonized leads which really bring about the desponding atmosphere, and Eric Wagner’s vocals are hands down some of the best in Metal. “The Truth Is, What Is†has a fantastic chorus despite being a mash of riffs and continues the high trend. Surprisingly it’s the next 2 pre-â€Psalm 9†tracks which seem a bit different, but the riffs on display still slaughter most Doom and NWOBHM from around this period. Finally, just when you think they couldn’t really top the power of the opening tracks comes the incredibly ominous “The Skullâ€. Once again the riffs here are inventive, memorable and shining with brilliance; the mind boggles that this release hasn’t been praised more.
Release date:
February 4, 2022
Label:
Install our app to receive notifications when new upcoming releases are added.

Recommended equipment and accessories
-
Denon DP-400
Featuring a high-precision, belt-driven mechanism and an adjustable tonearm that ensures optimal tracking and minimal resonance
-
Cartridges - Top Picks
A selection of turnatble cartridges that provide great performance and sound quality
-
Phono Preamps - Top Picks
A selection of the best phono preamps for your turntable setup
-
Edifier R1280DB Powered Speakers
Combining classic design with modern Bluetooth connectivity, built-in amplification and versatile inputs, these speakers deliver rich, balanced sound.
-
Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
Featuring a one-piece carbon fiber tonearm, precision-tuned motor, and a heavy steel platter with TPE damping, it ensures superior stability and sound quality.
Featured Upcoming Vinyl
-
James Yorkston Songs for Nina and Johanna
Domino Record Co
August 22, 2025 -
Guenna Peak Of Jin'arrah
The Sign Records
December 31, 2025 -
Rise Against Ricochet (Canary Yello; Amazon Exclusive) [2xLP]
Loma Vista Recordings
September 12, 2025 -
The Rasmus Weirdo (Purple)
Better Noise Music
September 12, 2025 -
Folk Bitch Trio Now Would Be a Good Time
Jagjaguwar
July 25, 2025 -
Michael Clifford Sidequest (Ultra Clear)
Hopeless Records
July 25, 2025 -
CODY JINKS IN MY BLOOD [2xLP]
Late August Records, LLC
July 25, 2025 -
Firstborne Lucky
M-Theory Audio
August 8, 2025 -
Ganser Animal Hospital (Blue)
Felte Records
August 29, 2025 -
Phil Collins No Jacket Required [4xLP]
Rhino Records
September 12, 2025 -
Drain ...is Your Friend
Epitaph
November 7, 2025 -
Guerilla Toss You're Weird Now (Yellow)
Sub Pop
September 12, 2025 -
Wednesday Bleeds
Dead Oceans
September 19, 2025 -
Signs of the Swarm To Rid Myself Of Truth
Century Media Int'l
August 29, 2025