What makes Djinn by Melechesh notable?

'Djinn' marked a significant step for Melechesh as it established them as pioneers of the black metal genre intertwined with Middle Eastern themes. The album received critical acclaim and helped solidify the band's reputation, contributing to the rise of a distinct sub-genre known as Oriental black metal. Released on June 26, 2001, 'Djinn' is Melechesh's second album, following their debut 'As Jerusalem Burns... Al'Intisar'. At this point, the band had begun to carve out a unique niche within the black metal scene, blending traditional metal elements with rich cultural influences from their Middle Eastern heritage.

Djinn works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, gradual builds and payoffs and dynamic emotional journeys.

How many songs are on Djinn?

Djinn has 10 tracks, running approximately 62 minutes.

Djinn

Melechesh · 2001

62 min · 10 tracks · black metal

Ancient myth and modern aggression collide in a swirling tempest of black metal infused with Middle Eastern melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Genies, Sorcerers and Mesopotamian Nights — This track encapsulates the album's thematic focus on ancient mythology while merging intricate guitar work with haunting melodies that evoke a mystical atmosphere.
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A Summoning of Ifrit and Genii — The complex rhythm shifts and dynamic arrangements in this song showcase Melechesh's skillful blending of black metal with Middle Eastern musical traditions, creating an immersive listening experience.
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Rub the Lantern — With its lengthy structure and evolving soundscapes, this track exemplifies the band's ability to create an epic narrative through music, drawing listeners into its captivating world.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

Melechesh blends black metal with Middle Eastern influences, showcasing strong composition and distinctiveness.

What we noticed

The album features complex song structures with frequent tempo changes, often shifting from blast beats to slower, melodic sections.
Middle Eastern scales and rhythms are integrated into the guitar riffs and melodies, creating a distinctive sound that sets it apart from typical black metal.
Several tracks incorporate atmospheric interludes that contrast with the aggressive instrumentation, providing moments of respite within the intensity.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
gradual builds and payoffs
dynamic emotional journeys
mythological narrative exploration

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on June 26, 2001, 'Djinn' is Melechesh's second album, following their debut 'As Jerusalem Burns... Al'Intisar'. At this point, the band had begun to carve out a unique niche within the black metal scene, blending traditional metal elements with rich cultural influences from their Middle Eastern heritage.
Stylistic neighbors: Septicflesh· Behemoth· Nile