Athenaeum Of Sin Reviews

Before we get to the article, we are pleased to present additional reviews of Melkor. Following our initial set of six reviews, we have returned with another six. We already commenced with the first two reviews titled The Rise Of Ophiuchus – As Galaxies Merge and Vehemence Abyss. Now get ready for this “dark and cold atmosphere-instrumental” called From The Bowels Of The Earth To The Infinity Of Darkness, from Melkor‘s other project entitled Eerie Resonance. It is important to note that Melkor has introduced something distinctly unique. Eerie Resonance stands apart from his previous endeavours. Once again, I will be conducting this review in a manner that differs from my usual approach, analysing each of the nine songs in detail.

Eerie Resonance, comes with (somewhat) a warning, “You want to be in a slight mediation state of mind to listen to this composition. You would rather not be in deep mediation, to manifest this into reality. To listen with a clear mind to contemplate the possibility of could be.” [Gemma]

Eerie Resonance is an immersive sensory experience. To better understand and dive into this journey, please read, comply with the following instructions as much as possible:

1.    Isolate yourself in a quiet place.
2.    Sit comfortably, preferably semi-recumbent.
3.    Read the description, internalize it and, for a few seconds, imagine it.
4.    Listen to one song at a time. Pause, read the description and press play.
5.    The light should be low.
6.    For total immersion, listen with headphones, volume 7.

I am unable to provide a complete description; however, I will include some elements of the description that will be conveyed through speech bubbles.

When the listener hits the play button, they are immediately enveloped by the haunting sounds of Black Ocean. Where ethereal keys and the immersive sound of the ocean emerge, enriching the composition with a vibrant soundscape and profound layers, as you “Imagine you’re diving into the unknown. The water is black, you can’t see anything”…

As the listener embarks on their voyage with the second composition, Aurora, the listener is invited to “Imagine you’re in a snow-covered forest at night in the Arctic Circle”, as the gentle tones of ambient keys envelop them, reminiscent of the crisp winter air. As the music progresses, spoken words and sound effects emerge from the speakers, urging the listener to immerse themselves in the unfolding narrative.

Enchanted Damnation is the following up piece, “Imagine you’re in an Ice Labyrinth. In the darkness, only the colours of the borealis illuminate you”. The listener is greeted once more with grand and dynamic melodies that embody the essence and spirit of the piece. Each segment and atmospheric arrangement is distinct, ensuring the music remains engaging and enthralling throughout. The fourth instalment, Revenge of the Valkyries, propels you further into an extraordinary adventure. “Imagine you’re climbing a mountain at night. The sky around the top of the mountain is orange, and you hear violent noises on the horizon”. The piece begins with a powerful choir, leading into an instrumental arrangement that unfolds like an epic soundscape of impending doom, reaching a climactic crescendo at the 1:18 mark!

Eerie Resonance‘s fifth piece, titled Nheengatu, begins with the enchanting sounds of birds, perfectly embodying the theme of the song “Imagine you are a bird.” This composition flourishes with rich atmospheric synths and captivating spoken-word elements. Transitioning to the next piece, At the Gates of Judgement, the listener is greeted by the ethereal harmonies of angels in the background. The dynamic and grandiose keys propel the music forward, inviting the audience to “open your eyes slowly and imagine that you are lying in an open coffin.” As the piece unfolds, it shifts into a smoother, more tranquil soundscape, yet an undercurrent of dread lingers in the atmosphere.

Eerie Resonance‘s seventh track, Deportation Of Souls, invites you to “imagine you’re climbing a ladder, just a ladder. Surrounded by darkness, emptiness”. This composition possesses an epic quality, with ethereal female voices echoing through the shadows, unseen yet hauntingly present. As you approach the conclusion, the soundscape shifts, embodying the lyrical theme of “a noisy machine is carrying yet another container of souls…” In contrast, the eighth track, Angel’s Collapse, opens with a sombre tone, pressing heavily upon your spirit. “Imagine you’re standing in the centre of a huge room in a palace, all completely white. The room has no windows, no doors, but all of it is white light”, amplifying a sense of entrapment and isolation as the piece unfolds.

The album concludes with the final track, Passage to Absolution, which ushers in a rich soundscape, driven by the resonant tones of the organ. This piece gracefully shifts into a realm of hope and forgiveness. “Imagine it’s time to leave everything. It’s the end of the line, the moment to reflect on what our life has been. Were we good? Did we help? Did we leave without regret? Was it worth it? Until the last second, there is time for redemption”.

What has been expressed above reflects my personal interpretation of Melkor’s music, and the lyric theme of From the Bowels of the Earth to the Infinity of Darkness. It is up to each listener to hear and envision their own unique experience and journey. The imagery I conjure is mine alone, yet it feels like a solitary expedition—an exploration of what, exactly? I invite you to fill in the gaps and embark on your ‘own’ journey. At the end of the day, Melkor has offered something distinct and thought-provoking for listeners to ponder and critique. It’s an enjoyable release, a refreshing departure from the norm, crafted with creativity that defies conventional boundaries.

Eerie Resonance‘s From the Bowels of the Earth to the Infinity of Darkness‘s composition is rich with various movements, diverse tones, and moods, along with sound effects that breathe life into each piece. Many of these elements remain unmentioned, as I want you to immerse yourself in the entire album without any spoilers. Once again, “Melkor” has presented another artistic fruit of art, brought to life by the duo’s fruit of art devilmanship. The soundscapes are sculpted by Melkor, complemented by Rui Vieira’s chilling arrangements, evocative samples, and haunting lyrics.