Permanence and Grief: A Deep Dive into Reekmind’s Debut Album

Exploring the Theme of Grief

Permanency is a central theme in Reekmind‘s debut album, Mired in the Reek of Grief. However, this exploration of permanence is not framed in a positive light. The Australian death/doom band delves into the concept of living eternally with grief, portraying how our sorrows accumulate over time, akin to an unsettling version of the game Katamari Damacy. While therapy may be one way to process this burden, Reekmind offers a compelling alternative: heavy, crushing riffs.

Musical Diversity and Unpredictability

The album showcases a variety of riffs that range from titanically slow, undulating tremolo sections to groovy doom stomps, all drenched in a layer of corrosive sludge. Reekmind eschews commitment to any single musical style, instead employing rapid tempo changes that inject a sense of unpredictability into each lengthy track.

Rhythmic Foundations

The drumming in Mired in the Reek of Grief emphasizes groove, with meticulously crafted crash accents and thunderous snare hits that provide a monstrous clarity to the meter. While density is used sparingly, it is impactful when deployed; notably, drummer Brayden’s fills serve as a formidable force, making their presence felt in a substantial way.

Narrative and Atmosphere

The album’s narrative unfolds through guttural vocals and an intensely atmospheric blend of death and doom metal. Mired in the Reek of Grief masterfully conveys its themes, especially through the closing track “A Lingering Mephitic Fog,” which shifts between haunting ambience and furious blast beats. The structural integrity of the music, characterized by compelling riffs, ensures that listeners are rewarded for their journey through this dismal landscape.

Insights from the Band

In their own words, the band explains:

The name REEKMIND stems from the recognition that one’s mind is perpetually entwined with grief. Whether it’s the lingering sorrow of the past, the impending dread of future trauma, or the current, seething pain that encircles the psyche, grief is an ever-present entity.

‘Mired in the Reek of Grief’ tells the story of how sorrow and anguish evolve into a grotesque and burdensome presence that lumbers through the mind. This entity grows larger and more impactful with movement, infecting the mind and causing profound suffering, ultimately overwhelming the individual and draining away hope and vitality.

Our goal was to create an album that carries weight and emotion, filled with filthy riffs and a strong groove, while ensuring the longer songs flow seamlessly without feeling stagnant.

Our influences span from Crowbar, Amenra, and Converge to Adramelech, Gorefest, and Krypts, making our quest to blend these inspirations into a cohesive sound both challenging and rewarding for listeners.

Release Information

Mired in the Reek of Grief is set to release on March 7th via Night Terrors Records.

Conclusion

Reekmind’s debut album stands as a powerful exploration of the burdens of grief, cloaked in heavy riffs and atmospheric soundscapes. By marrying narrative depth with a diverse musical approach, the band invites listeners into a world where sorrow is both a weight and a companion, ensuring that every moment spent within their sonic realm is both impactful and rewarding.

FAQs

What is the theme of Reekmind’s album?

The album explores the theme of grief and the permanence of sorrow, portraying it as a burdensome presence that one carries through life.

When is the release date for Mired in the Reek of Grief?

The album is scheduled for release on March 7th via Night Terrors Records.

What musical influences shape Reekmind’s sound?

The band’s influences include Crowbar, Amenra, Converge, Adramelech, Gorefest, and Krypts, which they blend to create a unique sound.

What can listeners expect in terms of musical style?

Listeners can expect a mix of heavy riffs, dynamic tempo changes, and an atmospheric blend of death and doom metal, designed to evoke a deep emotional response.