On Sunday, 3 November, EartH Hackney was transformed into a sonic temple as Chicago’s REZN brought their cosmic, doom-laden sound to the stage. With a reputation for delivering monolithic, immersive live performances, the band did not disappoint, creating an experience that felt less like a gig and more like an auditory journey through space and time.
REZN, known for their unique blend of heavy doom metal and psychedelic rock, have been building a dedicated following over the years with their expansive, hypnotic sound. The evening’s performance was an opportunity for fans to witness the band’s signature blend of deep, slow-moving riffs and ethereal atmospheres in a venue that proved to be the perfect backdrop.
As the band took the stage, the venue’s excellent acoustics allowed every crushing guitar note and ethereal synth swell to reverberate through the room with clarity and power, while the minimalist lighting added to the trippy, otherworldly vibe.
The venue’s moody, industrial feel meshed perfectly with REZN’s sonic landscape, and the crowd, a mix of doom metal diehards and psychedelic rock fans, was ready for the transcendental experience the band promised.
From the moment REZN hit the stage, it was clear that they weren’t just playing a set—they were guiding the audience through a sonic ritual. Their music, often described as “slow, heavy, and hypnotic,” was on full display here, and the intensity of their sound filled the room with an almost tangible presence. Opening with tracks from their latest album, Burden, the band quickly settled into their trademark sound: massive, fuzz-drenched riffs that seem to float in and out of time, layers of reverb-soaked guitars building into swirling, atmospheric crescendos, and deep, booming basslines that shook the foundation of the venue.
The evening’s performance wasn’t just about sheer heaviness, though. The more ambient and introspective moments were just as powerful, with the band’s use of space and atmospheric textures creating an eerie sense of wonder. The long, drawn-out instrumental sections between songs allowed for an almost meditative atmosphere to develop, giving the audience time to fully immerse themselves in the sonic landscape.
For anyone who loves heavy, psychedelic music that takes you places, REZN’s live show is a must-see. Their ability to transcend the limitations of genre and create an experience that is both sonically and emotionally powerful is truly a rare feat.
High Fives & Stage Dives 