Lowen
Do Not Go To War With The Demons Of Mazandaran
Sophomore album by London-based world doom visionaries Lowen. Co-release with Church Road Records (UK). Lyrically, the album draws from fables of the 'Shahnameh' (the Persian Book of Kings). Particularly, it warns against the folly of empire expansion despite their own people's resistance, with specific reference to the demons of Mazandaran. This criticism is especially reflected in the tracks 'Corruption On Earth' and 'Waging War Against God,' inspired by the death sentences placed on protesting women in Iran during the Woman Life Freedom movement of 2022. The cover art was created by the renown oil painter Hervé Scott Flament. Track 2 features Farsi and Sumerian lyrics, track 3 is entirely sung in Farsi, and track 6 contains a NeoBabylonion ghost summoning incantation. Track 5 contains a guest cello performance by Arianna Mahsayeh. Limited to 250 copies on heavyweight white in transparent blue vinyl.