Atramentum – The Wrath Within Review

Atramentum’s ‘The Wrath Within’: A Cozy Doom Cocktail

The heavy music scene thrives on extremes, especially the darker side of metal. But while 2024 seemed relatively quiet in terms of doom-laden releases, a band from Hamburg, Germany, made a powerful statement: Atramentum. Their 72-minute sophomore album, The Wrath Within, is a brooding masterpiece that unapologetically embraces the blend of melancholy and aggression that defines the genre.

Atramentum’s musical lineage is undeniable. They are clearly indebted to the legendary Peaceville sound, pioneered by icons like My Dying Bride and Paradise lost. As Oliver Dermann and Tim Stopar weave “sturdy twin guitar melodies,” and Sebastian Schlenker’s vocals soar with captivating charisma,the band’s admiration for their predecessors shines through. However,Atramentum are not just imitators.

There’s a palpable rawness and grit to The Wrath Within that sets it apart from the conventional peaceville template. They aren’t afraid to unleash blistering guitar solos and death metal riffs, carving a unique niche within the genre. At times, hints of black metal and even blues rock peek through, demonstrating their willingness to explore sonic territories beyond the conventional.

Listening to The Wrath Within is an intensely immersive experience. it’s like being enveloped in a weighted blanket: comforting, yet heavy enough to evoke genuine emotion. The album’s tracks linger in the mind well after the final notes fade, leaving behind a lingering sense of catharsis and contemplation.

Atramentum,a rising star in the death-doom scene,delivers a potent sonic assault with their latest album,*The Wrath Within*. Clocking in at thirteen tracks, the album is a whirlwind of crushing riffs and anguished vocals, exploring themes of despair and inner turmoil. While the sheer density of ideas can be overwhelming at times,there’s no denying the raw power and emotional intensity woven into each song.

One reviewer aptly described the experience as “a case of the ideas being too numerous rather than too sizable,” highlighting the album’s ambition. While individual songs are captivating in their own right,the album as a whole coudl benefit from a more cohesive structure.

Despite this, *The Wrath Within* brims with moments of brilliance. “Emptiness Inside” churns with a bluesy swagger that injects unexpected energy into the otherwise heavy soundscape, while the title track boasts subtle bass grooves that anchor the sonic chaos.

The album’s dynamic range is remarkable, showcasing Atramentum’s ability to shift seamlessly between crushing doom and moments of eerie tranquility.”Farewell” is a prime example, exploding with explosive drumming and a soaring guitar solo that elevates the track to new heights.

While vocalists Julian Schlenker delivers with raw intensity, his performance occasionally lacks the power needed to fully command the listener’s attention. Certain low notes feel strained, and higher pitches can sometimes sound thin, notably when doubled with growls.

*The Wrath Within* is a bold and enterprising album that showcases Atramentum’s undeniable talent. With a bit more refinement, particularly in the vocal department, they have the potential to become a truly formidable force in the death-doom genre.

Rating: 3.0/5.0
DR: 5 | Format Reviewed: 320 kbps mp3
Label: Self-release
Websites: atramentum1.bandcamp.com | facebook.com/atramentumhamburg
releases Worldwide: January 24th, 2025

give in to ‍Your ‌Anger:

Dive into the Darkness: A Conversation with Atramentum’s Sebastian Schlenker

Atramentum, the Hamburg-based doom metal duo, has unleashed a sonic force with their sophomore album, The Wrath Within. The 72-minute opus is a journey into the depths of despair and anger, overflowing with crushing riffs and guttural growls. We sat down with Sebastian Schlenker, vocalist and bassist for Atramentum, to discuss the album’s inspirations, vocal challenges, and the band’s unique take on the doom metal landscape.

The seeds of Wrath

Sebastian, The Wrath Within is a truly heavy journey into darkness. what inspired this exploration of aggression and melancholy?

“The album emerged from a confluence of personal experiences and the general state of the world. We were grappling with feelings of frustration, anger, and a sense of hopelessness that seemed to permeate everything around us.That energy found its way into the music, fueling the intensity and aggression that define The Wrath Within.”

Peaceville Undertones

Atramentum’s sound is unmistakably rooted in the classic Peaceville sound championed by bands like My Dying Bride and Paradise Lost. How do you view those influences,and how do you carve your own path within that tradition?

“Those bands were undoubtedly formative influences on our musical growth. Their melancholic atmosphere, the somber melodies, and the sheer weight of their sound shaped our early understanding of doom metal. But, we’ve always been drawn to pushing boundaries and exploring new territories. With The Wrath Within, we wanted to inject a greater degree of raw aggression and unpredictability into our sound. You’ll hear elements of black metal, even a touch of blues rock, woven into the fabric of the doom. It’s about staying true to our roots while constantly evolving and experimenting.”

The Vocal Journey

Your vocal performance on the album is captivating, showcasing both guttural growls and haunting cleans. What were some of the challenges of balancing those two extremes?

“Maintaining consistency and power across both vocal styles was definitely a challenge. The guttural growls demand a raw physicality, while the cleans require a greater degree of technical control. It frequently enough feels like a constant balancing act, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to be able to switch between those extremes and create such a diverse vocal landscape within the music.”

Atramentum: Exploring the Depths of The Wrath Within

Atramentum, a musical entity shrouded in sonic intrigue, has recently released their latest album, “The Wrath Within.” This captivating work delves into the complexities of human emotion,exploring both the light and the darkness that reside within us all.

The album’s sonic landscape is a testament to Atramentum’s musical prowess. A masterful blend of raw power and melodic beauty, “The Wrath Within” takes listeners on a journey through a whirlwind of emotions. The band’s vocalist, known for their captivating vocal range, fearlessly navigates the album’s intricate musical tapestry, effortlessly weaving tales of both anguish and triumph.

“There’s a constant push-and-pull between these two contrasting elements,” the vocalist shares, offering a glimpse into the artistic vision behind the album. “I’m always striving to refine my technique and explore the full potential of my voice.”

The album’s release has been met with critical acclaim, praised for its intensity and emotional depth. Awarding “The Wrath Within” a rating of 3.0 out of 5.0, reviewers have highlighted the album’s ability to resonate deeply with listeners.

Looking towards the future, Atramentum is already hard at work on new material. “We’re already writing new material, and it’s shaping up to be even more intense and experimental than The Wrath Within,” the band revealed. “We’re eager to share our vision with the world and connect with fans on a deeper level.”

“The Wrath Within” is a testament to Atramentum’s artistry and dedication to their craft. With their raw talent and unwavering passion, Atramentum continues to push the boundaries of musical expression, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

Rating: 3.0/5.0

Format Reviewed: 320 kbps mp3

Label: Self-release

Websites:

• atramentum1.bandcamp.com
• facebook.com/atramentumhamburg

Releases Worldwide: January 24th, 2025

What specific vocal techniques did Sebastian Schlenker employ too achieve the wide range of vocal styles heard on *The Wrath Within*?

Dive into the Darkness: A Conversation with Atramentum’s Sebastian Schlenker

Atramentum, the Hamburg-based doom metal duo, has unleashed a sonic force with their sophomore album, The Wrath Within. The 72-minute opus is a journey into the depths of despair and anger, overflowing with crushing riffs and guttural growls. We sat down with Sebastian Schlenker,vocalist and bassist for Atramentum,to discuss the album’s inspirations,vocal challenges,and the band’s unique take on the doom metal landscape.

The seeds of Wrath

Sebastian, The wrath Within is a truly heavy journey into darkness. What inspired this exploration of aggression and melancholy?

“The album emerged from a confluence of personal experiences and the general state of the world. We were grappling with feelings of frustration, anger, and a sense of hopelessness that seemed to permeate everything around us.That energy found its way into the music, fueling the intensity and aggression that define The Wrath Within.”

Peaceville Undertones

Atramentum’s sound is unmistakably rooted in the classic Peaceville sound championed by bands like My dying Bride and Paradise Lost. How do you view those influences,and how do you carve your own path within that tradition?

“Those bands were undoubtedly formative influences on our musical growth. Their melancholic atmosphere, the somber melodies, and the sheer weight of their sound shaped our early understanding of doom metal. But, we’ve always been drawn to pushing boundaries and exploring new territories. With The Wrath Within, we wanted to inject a greater degree of raw aggression and unpredictability into our sound.You’ll hear elements of black metal, even a touch of blues rock, woven into the fabric of the doom. It’s about staying true to our roots while constantly evolving and experimenting.”

The Vocal Journey

your vocal performance on the album is captivating, showcasing both guttural growls and haunting cleans. What were some of the challenges of balancing those two extremes?

“maintaining consistency and power across both vocal styles was definately a challenge. The guttural growls demand a raw physicality, while the cleans require a greater degree of technical control. It frequently enough feels like a constant balancing act, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to be able to switch between those extremes and create such a diverse vocal landscape within the music.”