Description
The 2023 split album between Sadness and Dismalimerence is a fascinating exploration of contrasting yet complementary musical styles, creating a unique listening experience that showcases the strengths of both bands. This collaboration marks a significant moment in their careers, offering a blend of brutality and celestial softness that is as memorable as it is unconventional.
Dismalimerence kicks off the album with the two-part track "Grief & Its Due," which delves deep into themes of sorrow, loss, and existential reflection. Their music is a forceful blend of Black Metal and Death Metal, characterized by powerful guitar riffs, intense drumming, and raw, emotional vocals. The lyrics are haunting, painting a vivid picture of a soul burdened by grief and the inescapable weight of existence. The imagery of "perpetual emptiness" and a heart "crowned with sorrow" resonates with listeners, drawing them into a melancholic journey that is both introspective and cathartic.
The band captures the fleeting nature of life, emphasizing how moments are often appreciated only when they have passed into memory. This sense of regret and bittersweet nostalgia is a central theme in the tracks, reflecting the emotional depth and complexity that Dismalimerence brings to their music. Their contribution to the split album is a powerful testament to their ability to channel intense emotions into a cohesive and impactful sound.
On the other side of the split, Sadness delivers "Damian," a track that contrasts sharply with the aggression of Dismalimerence yet complements it beautifully. Known for their ethereal blend of blackgaze and emo influences, Sadness crafts a sound that is both atmospheric and emotionally charged. "Damian" stands out for its lo-fi production, which creates a raw and intimate listening experience. The track incorporates elements reminiscent of bands like Brave Little Abacus, merging emotive melodies with the expansive soundscapes characteristic of blackgaze.
The production on "Damian" is particularly noteworthy, as it sometimes resembles the layered, textured approach of a DJ, with a "sound wall" effect where various sonic elements collide and merge. This creates a strange yet captivating atmosphere, drawing the listener into a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly. The track's lo-fi aesthetic adds to its charm, making it feel personal and immediate, as if the listener is experiencing a moment captured in time.
The split between Sadness and Dismalimerence is a masterful blend of contrasting styles that seamlessly fit together. Dismalimerence brings the heavy, introspective aggression of Black and Death Metal, while Sadness offers a celestial, emotive counterpoint with their blackgaze-infused emo. Together, they create a release that is not only memorable but also highlights the deep connection between the two artists. This collaboration is a standout in both of their discographies, offering a rich, multifaceted listening experience that will resonate with fans of both genres.
