Mantra
In Vain · 2010
74 min · 10 tracks · technical death metal
A complex weave of melodic riffs, intricate rhythms, and atmospheric textures defines this technical death metal journey.
Top tracks — play these first
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On the Banks of the Mississippi — This track exemplifies the band's ability to combine intricate guitar work with melodic storytelling, creating a captivating narrative arc that resonates throughout the album.
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Circle of Agony — With its dynamic shifts between aggressive sections and haunting melodies, this track showcases In Vain's skill in balancing heaviness with emotional depth.
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Wayakin (The Guardian Spirit of the Nez Perce) — This song stands out for its exploration of cultural themes and rich storytelling woven into a complex musical structure, representing a significant artistic statement on the album.
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Sombre Fall, Burdened Winter — The lengthy composition captures an atmospheric depth that reflects seasonal changes, marked by powerful transitions that highlight the band's progressive influences.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases intricate compositions and strong production, solidifying its place in technical death metal.
What we noticed
- Melodic riffs are interwoven with aggressive passages, creating a dynamic contrast throughout the tracks.
- Several tracks incorporate atmospheric interludes that provide a breather between intense sections, enhancing the overall flow of the album.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. 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.
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Wayakin (The Guardian Spirit of the Nez Perce)
The shift from historical reflection to personal connection highlights a deep reverence for heritage.
This transition not only emphasizes the narrative's emotional weight but also connects broader cultural themes to individual experience.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Captivating Solitude 7:01
- 2 Mannefall 7:03
- 3 Ain't No Lovin' 1:50
- 4 On the Banks of the Mississippi 8:09
- 5 Dark Prophets, Black Hearts 9:25
- 6 Wayakin (The Guardian Spirit of the Nez Perce) 9:19
- 7 Circle of Agony 9:03
- 8 Sombre Fall, Burdened Winter 11:16
- 9 Wayfaring Stranger 3:19
Disc 2
- 1 In Remembrance 8:05
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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