Pillorian
| Company type | Metal band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2016 |
| Founder | John Haughm, Trevor Matthews, Stephen Parker |
| Defunct | 2019 |
| Headquarters | Portland, Oregon , United States |
| Products | Music albums and singles |
Pillorian was a metal group originating from Portland, Oregon, established in 2016 by John Haughm, Trevor Matthews, and Stephen Parker. Their only full-length record, Obsidian Arc, was released on March 10, 2017.
History
Formed in mid-2016, Pillorian sought to develop a distinctive and ominous approach within the dark/black metal genre. The term "pillorian" signifies an expression of harsh judgment and denunciation. This project emerged soon after the dissolution of Haughm's former band, Agalloch.
The band's inaugural single, "A Stygian Pyre," debuted on February 10, 2017. NPR characterized the track as both "feral" and "bestial," while noting its polished production quality.
Their first album, Obsidian Arc, was released on March 10, 2017, garnering a range of responses from critics. Sputnik Music awarded it a perfect score of 5 out of 5, describing it as "classic" and drawing connections to Agalloch's lyrical themes that suggest lasting significance. Meanwhile, Decibel gave an 8/10 rating, emphasizing the album’s darker tones and increased dissonance compared to Haughm's prior work. Metal Injection regarded the release as a "somewhat promising start," though they noted it seldom achieved moments of true excellence.
In February 2019, following controversy sparked by Haughm’s Facebook remarks perceived as anti-Semitic, Matthews and Parker departed from the band. Shortly thereafter, Haughm announced the official end of Pillorian.
Members
- John Haughm – vocals, guitars (2016–2019)
- Trevor Matthews – drums (2016–2019)
- Stephen Parker – guitars, bass (2016–2019)
Studio albums
- Obsidian Arc (March 10, 2017; Eisenwald Tonschmiede)
Singles
- A Stygian Pyre (February 10, 2017; Eisenwald Tonschmiede)