Label: Independent
Genre: Melodic Death/Doom Metal
Length: 01:12:31
For my first pre-release review of the year, I'm going to introduce you to The Wrath Within, the new album by German band Atramentum, due out on 24 January. But before I talk about the album, let me introduce you to the band: hailing from Hamburg, Germany, Atramentum formed in 2017. In 2019, they unveiled their first demo entitled Lost, before releasing their debut album, Doomed in Time, in 2021.
Their second album, The Wrath Within, will be arriving in a few days' time in digital version and on digipak CD, as an independent release. This ambitious opus contains 13 tracks totalling 1 hour and 12 minutes. Yes, it's a long album, but it manages to keep my interest thanks to its multiple nuances and musical creativity.
The compositions are heavy, melodic and often oppressive, yet accessible. The clean production allows you to appreciate every sonic detail, from the riffs and bass lines, which are more prominent on tracks like The Wrath Within, to the varied vocal performances. The album stands out for its alternation between deep growls, clear vocals and narrative passages, supported by rhythms that oscillate between frenetic accelerations and heavier tempos. The melodies, often dark, add an emotional dimension that I particularly appreciated.
Some of the standout passages really left a strong impression on me. On Back to Soil, for example, the powerful, wailing scream that occurs after the first minute is absolutely memorable. On Window, one of the most structured and nuanced tracks on the album, the avalanche of sound that erupts at minute 3:10 is startling, as is the deep, long growl at 2:48. These moments combine with the mysterious atmosphere of the final minutes. Other passages like the acceleration at 1:40 on Farewell or the rhythmic intensity of Path to Salvation are also among my favourites.
Higgs Field is one of my favourite tracks, with its heavy, oppressive atmosphere enhanced by captivating melodies. Emptiness Inside, with its perfect use of clear vocals as accompaniment, offers a rare emotional depth. Finally, Window, with its multiple changes and complexity, stands out as one of the most impressive tracks on this album.
In conclusion, The Wrath Within is an ambitious, creative and nuanced work. Atramentum demonstrate a real mastery of the music they make, combining heavy, melodic compositions with striking vocal performances. This album deserves your full attention. I can't wait to see how the public responds to this gem in the days to come.
