Athenaeum Of Sin Reviews

Before heading into the article, this is the second review of six (Melkor‘s reviews). Like Temple of the Fallen, Wasteland Requiem is another project from sole and foundered artist Melkor. Unlike Temple of the Fallen, Wasteland Requiem is more melodic doom/death metal.

The moment the listener presses the play button, the opening piece, Echoes Of Extinction, greets the listener with a symphonic soundscape, followed by a surge of instrumental and vocal aggression. The listener continues their journey with the second piece, Wasteland Requiem, and the remaining two pieces, which take the listener on a journey, about an apocalyptic future. Wasteland Requiem is based on an apocalyptic future caused by human greed. Lyrics inspired by the fires happening in Portugal. (A big thank you to the firefighters and everyone who risks their lives to keep us safe [Melkor])

“Scientists warn that the Earth will become barren and arid, with deserts expanding and fertile lands turning into wastelands. This vision of desolation is attributed to human greed and environmental degradation.” [Melkor]

Melkor seamlessly transitions the listener into a new fruit of art creation as they embark on their journey, echoing the spirit of the guitar work in Temple Of The Fallen. This composition embodies a devilmanship of rhythmic intensity, where the guitar weaves a tapestry of sound that switches between raw ferocity and delicate finesse. Nonetheless, a noteworthy distinction lies in the meticulously orchestrated slowing of tempo, which enhances the pervasive dread that permeates the soundscape, engulfing the listener in an atmosphere characterized by tension. The sense of foreboding is further heightened by the presence of sinister synths, lurking in the background like shadows waiting to emerge.

These sinister synths, which add a haunting element, occasionally break through the audible veil, adding an unsettling layer to the atmosphere. The combination of synth and guitar creates a rich, immersive environment that draws the listener deeper into the narrative, evoking an emotional response that is both thrilling and chilling. Adding to this intricate soundscape are Melkor‘s aggressive death growls, which infuse the music with an intense emotional weight. The relentless drum work propels the composition forward, driving the listener through a labyrinth of sound.

Wasteland Requiem is a solid piece of fruit of art showcasing a meticulously crafted instrumental, musical score and devilmanship. Each composition is distinct, weaving a rich tapestry of sound that tweens like a thorn brush. This sonic journey immerses listeners in a profound exploration of darkness, heaviness, and the foreboding essence of doom metal, alongside the fierce yet melodic and aggressive elements of death metal.

Like Melkor’s Temple of the Fallen production, Wasteland Requiem is nothing less than extraordinary with its sound quality and production. It surrounds the audience with a soundscape that enhances both the music and its atmosphere. Every layer of sound is meticulously crafted, creating a robust auditory experience that resonates deeply with the listener. Melkor‘s arrangements are evident, as each note and rhythm is executed with precision, inviting the audience to lose themselves in the immersive experience.