Imagine a musical current so powerful it could either propel you to greatness or destroy you entirely. That’s the essence of Ordeals’ Third Rail Prayer, an album that teeters on the edge of brilliance and obscurity. Named after the infamous third rail of the New York City Subway—a live wire capable of powering trains or ending lives—this record is a high-stakes journey through the band’s serpentine blend of black and death metal. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Ordeals showcases undeniable talent, their debut feels like a missed opportunity to fully embrace what they do best. Let’s dive in.
Formed in 2011, this NYC trio has spent over a decade honing their craft, releasing two EPs and a split before finally dropping their first full-length album. Influenced by the Australian metal scene, Ordeals delivers a subterranean sound that’s both chaotic and calculated. But will Third Rail Prayer electrify their career, or leave them dead in the water? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.
Musicianship is where Ordeals shines brightest. Bassist/guitarist Illuminated crafts blackened riffs that churn and swirl like an underwater tempest, constantly evolving through tempo shifts and key changes (listen to “Throes” for a masterclass in this). Tremolo-heavy passages on tracks like “Suffer Cursed Ordeals” evoke the raw intensity of Abominator, while the bass often steps into the spotlight, adding depth and texture—a standout moment being the back half of “Emerge.” Drummer Bellum is a force of nature, seamlessly blending blast beats with dynamic percussion. His work on “Scorn Ceremony” and “Third Rail Prayer” is nothing short of masterful, driving the album with relentless energy.
And this is the part most people miss: Third Rail Prayer isn’t just about brutality; it’s a ritualistic experience. Vocalist Zealous Hellspell ditches the typical high-pitched rasps for full-throated roars reminiscent of Uada or Rotting Christ, conjuring images of dark ceremonies and forbidden magic (hear it on “Triumph” and “Suffer Cursed Ordeals”). Despite billing themselves as blackened death metal, Ordeals also dips into doom with surprising competence. Tracks like “Throes” and “Scorn Ceremony” build tension with Candlemass-inspired riffcraft, creating an atmosphere that’s both unsettling and hypnotic. The band’s ability to release that tension—often culminating in spiraling, Dionysian climaxes—is where they truly excel.
But here’s the irony: the album’s greatest strength is also its biggest flaw. When Ordeals leans into their doom-influenced, atmospheric passages, they’re unstoppable. Yet, these moments feel like afterthoughts, overshadowed by their black and death metal elements. While Hellspell’s vocals tie the album together, Illuminated and Bellum’s contributions in these sections pale in comparison. It’s frustrating, because when Ordeals embraces their Sabbathian, ceremonial side, they’re unparalleled. The question is: why don’t they do it more?
Third Rail Prayer is a kitchen-sink album, showcasing the band’s versatility but lacking focus. They play good black metal, good death metal, but great blackened doom. Instead of doubling down on their strengths, Ordeals treats them as just another tool in their arsenal. This debut feels like a 40-minute proof of concept—a tantalizing glimpse of what could be. If they can refine their sound, leaning into their stately, doom-laden songcraft and ritualistic atmosphere, they’ll rise above the sea of mediocrity.
Controversial take: Ordeals is a band on the brink of greatness, but Third Rail Prayer doesn’t fully deliver. It’s an enjoyable listen, but it leaves you craving more of what they do best. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is it better for a band to master one style or experiment with many, even if it means diluting their potential? Let me know in the comments.
Rating: 3.0/5.0
DR: 8 | Format Reviewed: 320 kbps mp3
Label: Eternal Death (https://eternaldeath.bandcamp.com/)
Band Links:
- Bandcamp: https://ordealsascendant.bandcamp.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OrdealsAscendant/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ordealsofficial/
Release Date: September 26th, 2025
