It is intrinsic to our nature to analyze the art we experience through the context of the current world. The thought is often unnoticed as most natural responses become, but still an added focal point to overall discussion and appreciation when the connections arise. When I first heard the music of SALOS, the indignation and forcefulness behind their post-metal was felt as both a call to arms and a lament for the end of days, a feeling shared by many living through modern times as the pendulum swings in either direction.
The two-piece instrumental metal outfit from Kalamata, Greece have crafted a powerful debut in theme and execution, shifting the balance between cinematic and progressive passages on its seven-track journey. The equilibrium is found within the contrasting nature of the band and music alike, displaying emphatic moments of post-rock amongst the darker, hulking riffs that unravel throughout each song. It hearkens back to the old days as much as it establishes itself amongst the zeitgeist of the present, showcasing a formidable first work that will catch the interest of many. We are happy to premiere the full album from SALOS, A Slaughter for the Empire, here at Everything Is Noise:
The music speaks to the conflict of man versus nature similar to the work of Phillip Glass on Koyaanisqatsi, but with an added grandiosity and burden born out of the duo’s musical roots. Songs stand as tall as giants; moving through open, anthemic moments that offer release amongst the shifting focus throughout the album. To me, the post-metal tag often lacks a bit of flavor out of the genre names it was conceived from. SALOS present the perfect mesh of influences through their distinctive post- and instrumental compositions without forgetting the metal, showcased best on their heavier tracks “Slaughter” and “We Deteriorate, Let’s Disintegrate”.
Noting that the band are a two person effort is solely for the fact it is not immediately noticeable when listening to A Slaughter for the Empire. The songs have a sense of movement and shape amongst their development, a focus within their delivery that offers the gestalt over the sum of its parts. Added saxophone from acclaimed Greek jazz musician Yiannis Kassetas on “Arches” expands their sound further, taking a song rooted in prog metal to a gloomy, heavy-laden climax. Overall, A Slaughter for the Empire is a sprawling and imaginative release marking a worthwhile introduction to a group shaping the sound of metal to come.
A Slaughter for the Empire was recorded at Eightyard Studios by Chris Vlachos, and mixed and mastered by Steve Lado with added synths performed by Nikos Mavromatis. The album is set to release on March 13, 2026, and be sure to check out SALOS on Bandcamp for the full digital release along with their merch line. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook for future updates and announcements as well.
