Christmas (Old Man Gloom album)

Christmas is the sixth full-length studio album by the American experimental metal band Old Man Gloom, released on December 17, 2020, through Profound Lore Records. It is a concept album, described by the band as exploring themes of death, rebirth, and the cyclical nature of time, often through a distorted and unsettling lens reflecting the holiday its title references.

The album features the band's signature blend of sludge metal, drone, and noise rock, characterized by heavy riffs, distorted vocals, and atmospheric soundscapes. It continues Old Man Gloom's exploration of sonic textures and experimental song structures. Musically, it diverges somewhat from previous albums, incorporating more pronounced electronic elements and an increased emphasis on ambient sections, contributing to a sense of dread and claustrophobia.

Reception to Christmas was generally positive, with critics praising its innovative sound design and unsettling atmosphere. However, some critics found the album challenging due to its dense and often abrasive nature. The album's thematic exploration and its unconventional approach to the "Christmas" concept garnered particular attention.