Solace's 'Fading Failing Ruin' marks a significant milestone as the New Jersey-based band celebrates its 30th anniversary. This review delves into the album's strengths and weaknesses, offering a critical perspective on their unique brand of stoner metal. The band's journey, from their debut 'Further' in 2000 to the latest release, showcases a deliberate and measured approach to music creation. With a lineup that includes guitarists Tommy Southard and Justin Daniels, as well as vocalist/keyboardist Justin Goins, the album presents a blend of southern charm and stoner doom, setting them apart from their contemporaries. The album's opening track, 'Spiral Will', showcases a defiant lead that transitions into anthemic verses, leaving a lasting impression. 'Beyond Below' and 'Malengine the Scaffold' further exemplify this style, with fuzz-soaked guitars building tension before unleashing slick variations and solos. The band's ability to craft distinctive songs is evident, with 'A God Changes His Plans' and 'Culling the Herd' offering a heavier emphasis on guitar theatrics, showcasing the skill of Southard and Daniels. Goins' vocals, drawing comparisons to Live's Ed Kowalczyk and Pepper Keenan, add a renewed vitality to the band's sound, particularly in contrast to their earlier, punk-influenced work. The rhythm section, comprising Gitlan and Sica, provides a solid foundation, supporting the band's overall sound without overshadowing the guitar work. However, the album's length becomes a concern, with 'Wraths Object the Big Fall' standing out as an overlong track that risks diluting the overall quality. Despite this, 'Fading Failing Ruin' remains an engaging listen, with the band's ability to craft distinctive songs that crackle and pop. The album's release on Magnetic Eye Records and its availability on Bandcamp and Facebook further enhances its accessibility. While the album's length may be a hindrance, the band's dedication to their craft and their unique sound make 'Fading Failing Ruin' a recommended listen for fans of the genre and beyond. The album's release on July 3rd, 2026, marks a significant moment in the band's history, and their continued evolution and experimentation will undoubtedly shape their future releases.
