heavy-metal-darkness: On The Loose | Path To Serenity

Sunday, December 14, 2025

On The Loose | Path To Serenity | Self-Release

Release Date: November 2^nd, 2025
Format: Digital/CD
Genre: Epic/Doom Metal
Country: Portugal

On The Loose is an epic doom metal band from the Algarve region of Portugal. Formed in 2020 by guitarist Marco Marouco and drummer JP Ventura, the band has moved through several line up changes across three albums. Each release marked a new chapter, with different vocalists shaping the band’s sound. With “Path To Serenity”, the band presents a renewed formation and a clearer picture of where they stand today.

“Path To Serenity” arrives as a solid and measured epic doom metal album, grounded in tradition and shaped by the band’s current line up. The material stays within familiar territory for the style, slow paced, heavy, and dramatic, without drifting into excess. The songwriting focuses on atmosphere and long form structures, giving the album a steady flow that suits repeated listening. The overall sound remains consistent and coherent, helped by a production that keeps things clear and balanced.

Rick Thor’s vocal presence plays a central role in defining this album. His delivery fits well with the epic doom approach, staying expressive without becoming overdone. The lyrics follow themes common to the genre, personal struggle, inner darkness, and reflection, presented in a straightforward way. This approach keeps the album accessible, especially for listeners already familiar with classic doom metal ideas.

The rhythm section supports the material with steady pacing and restraint. The guitars focus on strong riffs and extended passages, which gives the album a patient and deliberate character. Toni Cagaita’s bass work adds depth to the arrangements, reinforcing the low end and giving the songs a fuller sound. The recording at Paulo Vieira Studio helps has everything well defined and organized. “Path To Serenity” fits comfortably alongside releases from bands such as Candlemass, Sorcerer, and Paradise Lost, without straying far from the core of the genre. It may not surprise seasoned listeners but it offers a reliable epic doom metal album that reflects a band settling into a stable form after several changes.

Score: 7.0