Sleepless – Through Endless Black

Through Endless Black by Sleepless is a journey through a soundscape that feels both modern and nostalgic, a blend of technical thrash with rich occult themes that echo metal’s legendary origins. Released on October 31, 2024, this album captures the essence of bands like Black Sabbath, Dio, Iron Maiden, and Queensrÿche—yet still manages to carve out its own distinct identity.

The album opens with an ethereal riff that gently eases the listener into a calm state, before unleashing a Black Sabbath-esque main riff that sets the stage for what’s to come. There’s an undeniable familiarity here, almost as if rediscovering something you’ve never heard yet instantly recognize. Each track on Through Endless Black contains a unique hook, whether it’s a catchy riff, a standout vocal, or a memorable transition that makes this album addictive from the first listen.

The clean vocals of Kevin Hahn dominate the album, with the occasional growl for contrast. The vocal style is refreshing, reminiscent of a time when powerful, clean voices ruled metal. Hahn’s delivery evokes those teenage years when headphones and midnight listens were ritual. It’s nostalgic but invigorating, bringing out the album’s emotional core. On Track 4, Hahn demonstrates his vocal range, shifting from blues-inspired growls to clean highs, making this one of the more dynamic songs on the album.

Moving into Track 5, Sleepless showcases an impressive blending of metal genres—there are hints of doom, rock, and thrash here, creating a rhythmic groove that commands you to nod along. Track 6 ramps up the tempo play, taking listeners through a rollercoaster of slow, mid-tempo, and galloping riffs with an unexpected but exhilarating solo.

The back half of the album digs even deeper into its 80s and 90s influences, with Track 7 paying homage to the greats. Here, the riffs and vocal delivery are reminiscent of Geoff Tate and Ronnie James Dio, a nod that die-hard metal fans will appreciate. Track 8 brings the occult themes front and center, with eerie backing sounds and tremolo-picked riffs that feel otherworldly, not to mention an outstanding bassline from Eric Dorsett that’s more prominent than anywhere else on the album. By Track 10, the band fully embodies their technical thrash roots, delivering an epic closer that highlights the trio’s musical prowess.

Throughout Through Endless Black, Sleepless delivers riffs that are almost hypnotic, backed by Eric Detablan’s drumming which gives each song structure without sacrificing the album’s raw, chaotic energy. The tempos shift often, creating an unpredictable and engaging listening experience. Each track contributes to the album’s narrative—a sense of horror and doom, blended with thrilling musicality that leaves an impression.

For fans of metal’s golden era, Through Endless Black is a must-listen. Sleepless has crafted an album that feels timeless yet fresh, a new ritual for fans of Black Sabbath, Dio, and Iron Maiden.