If you’ve been following me on socials, it’s no secret that Hangman’s Chair is one of my favorite bands over the last few years. 2022’s “A Loner” hit me like a freight train, and watching a few of the band’s insanely immersive live shows just propelled them further. But that couldn’t prepare for me for what’s to come in 2025 with “Saddiction”. Easily their best album and my number one album of 2025. Here’s why!
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- Stefan Nordström
- Musician, songwriter, content creator, digital freelancer
- Stockholm, Sweden
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About Hangman’s Chair
Hangman’s Chair is a French depressive metal/rock band somewhere in the borderline between doom metal, alternative, stoner, gothic and southern metal. The band was active for a long time before gaining more attention in the late 2010’s. To me, Hangman’s Chair has gotten better with every release, becoming a more focused, sonically appealing band. It’s a pity that they’ve gone on hiatus after releasing “Saddiction”, but I’m hoping that’s only temporary.
Why “Saddiction” kicks so much ass
Vocal/hooks level-up
Don’t get me wrong, Hangman’s Chair had huge hooks on the previous albums as well. But on “Saddiction” every song has distinct vocal and guitar hooks that get me. Every individual song stands out and ties into the overall album flow perfectly. I couldn’t weed out a weak track here if I tried to, and the 46 minute running time is just perfect.
They’ve let the vocals come out more in the mix, and I also feel that the singer flat out sings better on this album. I just love the small Layne Staley-ish “aaa-aaa” nods, and there are also some post-punk and new wave leanings that go just perfect with the band’s dark sound.
Huge, depressive sonics
“A Loner” already sounded like a beatdown wall with the huge guitar tone and crashing snare drum echo, but “Saddiction” takes it even further. It’s really a perfected version of what the last two albums were going for. It makes it hit even harder emotionally, and it’s definitely a very 2025 album for me. The elaborate and crassly expressed existential hopelessness aligns a lot with how I’ve been feeling throughout the year, and contributes to its impact.
Making the most of every note
I’ve shifted my music preferences a lot over the last 3-4 years or so. I’m tired of perfection, and I’m tired of overbearing music. Visceral impact is what I need, preferrably from musicians that make the most out of every note. Hangman’s Chair has both these things in droves, and even more so on “Saddiction”.
Many of their songs rely on simple 4/4 progressions nearing singer/songwriter simplicity. The beats are similarly simple, and they don’t rely on particularly many layers, aside from crushing rhythm guitars and ethereal effects. Making music this simple pop and have an impact is the hardest thing to do, according to me. And they do it perfectly, through genuine emotion and smart songwriting. Other metal bands should definitely take notes here.
“Saddiction” – final words
So, this is my take on why Hangman’s Chair’s “Saddiction” is easily is my favorite album of 2025. I could keep raving, but I believe this is more than enough to convince you to listen to it. I really hope the band comes back from their hiatus soon, and in case they do, don’t miss the chance to see them live. Amazing!
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