Out March 6, 2026
Via Argonauta Records
Words by: Arlena Laessaari
Three years after their self titled debut, France based Azken Auzi returns with Infernua, a record that feels like a massive, suffocating step forward. While their 2023 release offered a balanced mix of sludge and atmosphere,Infernua leans much harder into the crushing side of the spectrum. This album steps into occult doom and sludge that feels heavier and more deliberate than what Azken Auzi had done before.
Within the opening track, Deep Hell, you can already feel the shift, the sound is thicker, slowly crushing the listener rather than just surrounding them. Influences like Mayhem, Godflesh, and EyeHateGod, are present. However, Azken Auzi isn’t copying their influences, they have taken that pained vocal energy and slowed it down to a glacial pace. This creates a tormented sound that defines the album’s oppressive atmosphere
The track list offers some standouts for fans of the genre. See You Next Tuesday lives up to its aggressive title, opening with a classic doomy crawl and deep, agonised vocals that set a grim tone. Meanwhile, Reptilian stands out as a high point, beginning with a sense of mystery before descending into a heavy, guest assisted doom stomp featuring Nico, Voidozer.
What is most surprising is how the album concludes. The final track, From Hell, manages to pull off a difficult trick; it introduces an ethereal, atmospheric quality that provides a sense of fragile hope without losing the record’s heavy doom foundation. It’s an unforgettable moment that works perfectly within the context of the larger, brutal experience.
Overall, Infernua is a mature, intense statement from a band that has clearly found its own voice. If you are a fan of doom and all things dark, mysterious, and occult, this record is definitely for you!
