Dolium: England’s Best-Kept Secret To Be Revealed – Complete Discography in One Epic Collection
For fans of alternative, DIY lo-fi punk-scuzz-rock, the announcement of Dolium’s 20th Anniversary LTD Edition 4 CD Set is a significant moment in the history of this underground rock n’ roll band. Sister 9, Machester based label that is behind this Dolium release, presents a collection that takes listeners deep into the roots of the Sheffield rockers’ gritty yet unforgettable sound. One of English rock music’s best-kept secrets for the past 20 years is finally about to be revealed in it’s fullness on November 22nd, under the title The Products of Our Own Demands and Commands.
This package that represents the entire Dolium’s discography was firstly introduced to the fans with a lead single from their long-lost unreleased third album Brother Transistor, titled “Get Off On My Machine”. But right now, on November the 8th we got “Transmission Impossible” & “Sheer “Velocity” along with the 4-track video EP titled The Brother Transistor Video Series.
The Origins of Dolium: A Sonic Assault on Sheffield
Formed in the late ’90s, Dolium quickly became a cornerstone of Sheffield’s vibrant underground music scene. With their abrasive blend of punk rock and lo-fi aesthetics, the band earned a reputation for their electrifying live shows and unapologetic DIY ethos. Their 2004 debut single captured the attention of legendary BBC DJ John Peel, propelling them onto a broader stage. Peel described their sound as “a screaming, raging, frighteningly fierce assault of punk rock,” a sentiment echoed by BBC Manchester, who heralded them as “The Black Stripes” of their time.
Their debut album, Kisses Fractures (2005), and its follow-up, Hellhounds On The Prowl (2008), solidified their cult status. However, despite their growing acclaim, Dolium went on an indefinite hiatus in 2010, leaving fans yearning for more.
Perhaps the biggest treat lies within CD3, which delivers the long-lost Brother Transistor, an unreleased third album brimming with what can only be described as untamed ambition and punk-rock eccentricity. Remastered by frontman Rhys Bloodjoy in the S9 Studio, these tracks serve as a missing puzzle piece, revealing a darker, more experimental side of the band. The once-hidden gems echo the black horror of Bauhaus yet retain Dolium’s signature melodic dynamics, reminiscent of the Pixies and early Joy Division.
The Box Set: A Treasure Trove of Dolium’s History
Fast-forward to 2024, and Dolium is back with their original lineup to celebrate the release of their monumental box set. This collection offers a comprehensive journey through their career, featuring 76 tracks across four discs, all newly remastered by frontman Rhys Bloodjoy (Reece Adamo) in the S9 Studio.
Here’s what fans can expect:
- CD1: “Kisses Fractures” (2005 Debut Album) + Bonus Tracks & “Teenagers EP” (2006)
- CD2: “Hellhounds On The Prowl” (2008 2nd Album) + Bonus Tracks & “El Vampiro Attack! EP” (2008)
- CD3: “Brother Transistor” (Unreleased 3rd Album) + Bonus Tracks
- CD4: “66.6 Miles And The F-Machine” (Early 4-Track Demos) + Rarities (1998-2003)
The centerpiece of the box set is the long-lost third album, Brother Transistor, which showcases the band’s evolution with tracks that are both haunting and explosively raw. Fans will also be treated to a meticulously crafted 32-page full-color booklet featuring artwork, rare photography, and exclusive liner notes from the band and their management.
The Reunion: A One-Night-Only Celebration
Dolium’s return to the stage after 14 years is set for November 22nd at Sheffield’s Hallamshire Hotel, where they’ll headline the Sister 9 Anniversary Party. This highly anticipated event is more than just a concert; it’s a homecoming and a tribute to the label that fostered their rise. For fans, it’s a rare chance to experience the unrelenting power of Dolium live, complete with the original lineup:
Tickets: https://fatso.ma/0zgz
Final Thoughts
Dolium’s legacy as a “cult favorite” (as Rock Midgets so fittingly described) comes to life in this comprehensive and beautifully curated set. From punk-rock anthems to lo-fi masterpieces, from early scuzz to dark experimental works, this collection is a testament to a band that thrived on intensity and authenticity. Whether you were part of the UK underground scene when Dolium first erupted or are discovering them for the first time, this release captures everything that made them one of England’s best-kept secrets.
Even we were skeptical here on Junkyard when we first saw an email featuring a band that doesn’t typically fall within the genres we usually cover here. However, listening to this box set instantly shattered all our doubts. Dolium delivers bold rock ‘n’ roll with a punk attitude and dark gritty vibes. If you’re a fan of DIY underground music—or even if you’re not but are looking to hear something different—Dolium is the perfect choice for you.
DOLIUM are –
REECE ADAMO – VOICE/GUITAR – Originally from Sheffield, Reece reinvented himself both musically and creatively as Rhys Bloodjoy during Dolium’s hiatus.
MS DE VINE – BASS/VOICE- Originally from Kent, Ms De Vine moved to Leeds in her teens, and not long after, crossing paths with Reece, and ultimately, forming the band.
SIMON HIMSWORTH – DRUMS – Originally from Halifax, Simon relocated to York in 2004 and the band lost touch until 2024, unexpectedly reuniting during the 20th Anniversary of Sister 9!
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