Wagner, Eric
In The Lonely Light Of Mourning
Tagline: The posthumous solo album from one of doom metals most legendary voices. Short synopsis: Former Trouble singer Eric Wagner left this world too soon in August 2021. He left behind a legacy that few can match. In the Lonely Light of Mourning is his solo debut - and recording farewell. Longer synopsis: On August 22, 2021, former Trouble singer Eric Wagner departed this world. His death cast a greater pall on an already difficult and trying year, a year where many of Erics devoted fans used his music as a balm for their souls. In an unintended twist of fate, Eric had put the finishing touches on his debut solo album, In the Lonely Light of Mourning mere weeks before his passing. It now serves as the definitive swansong for one of doom metals most beloved voices. According to those closest to Eric, the idea for a solo album had long been brewing. The singer had amassed a tight group of friends and collaborators with whom he could rely upon - including former Trouble bandmates and members of post-Trouble acts Blackfinger and The Skull. He even tapped into the wide array of musicians with whom hes shared the stage to make an album that felt like a "family reunion." In 2017, he asked former Trouble/current Blackfinger drummer Dave Snyder to help write what would eventually become In the Lonely Light of Mourning. The two spent the ensuing four years gradually hammering away at the compositions. Snyder emailed Eric his ideas, and then they would make adjustments and finalize the arrangements over the phone since both lived in separate states. Along the way, Erics friends contributed song suggestions, riffs, guitar solos and song titles. It was the collaborative album Eric always envisioned. In the Lonely Light of Mourning captures all eras of Erics career - even tapping into his 1997 Lid album, In the Mushroom. The LPs depth is represented by resonant, melancholic acoustic guitar work that complements Snyders earth-sized riffs and Erics unmistakable vocals. But, it is doom at its core: Earthy, honest, brooding and heavy - just the way Eric preferred. In the Lonely Light of Mourning also finds Eric at his most vulnerable, with some lyrics suggesting he knew something foreboding was right around the corner. Eric Wagners legacy is permanently secure in the annals of doom metal. Thus, it is impossible to quantify his impact on the metal scene. His legacy with Trouble is reflected in the countless bands who followed in their wake, purveying the same kind of heartfelt, undeniably heavy doom metal that touches the mind and spirit. Shine on, Eric.