Where the very boundaries of genre lines blur, greatness can oftentimes be found. Or, at least, the prospect of greatness. Bringing together different worlds doesn’t automatically make for a transcendent listen by any means whatsoever with it still requiring loads of finesse, talent, and will to bring it all together in such a form that feels impactful and interesting. While the world of psychedelia has not been lacking in that regard at all this year, it’s more doom metal leanings aren’t given the spotlight often enough specifically because it’s not often a band comes around that does the concept real justice. Within the four tracks of its debut album, Meltem accomplishes precisely that.

While my mind immediately jumps to acts like Zaum when it comes to psychedelia in doom metal done right from top to bottom, there is always more than enough room for a new name to come around and not just surprise us but remind us what can still be done when everything simply comes together in such a form that is exquisite to gaze upon. As such, creations like that are well and truly few and far between. It’s been a long time since I’ve come across an album that can scratch that itch real nicely, and Meltem has delivered relief for that itch and greatness in heaps with all that is “Mare Nostrum”. A four-track behemoth that chugs as much as it entrances at damn near every given turn, this is what it means to give the concept a good name, make it your way, and flourish. Whereas others might find themselves lost and subjected to the smaller details of such a nuanced effort, Meltem takes vast strides that are as impressive as they are monolithic with much of what’s always made this corner of doom such a treat to those who can lose themselves within it. Whether it’s in the riffs, thunderous drums, mesmerizing chants, drawn-out rhythms, or long-form kaleidoscopic visions that sees Meltem dare quite a bit in what feels far more mature and fascinating than what one would expect from a debut album. Yet, if there’s anything to be found within the vastness of “Mare Nostrum”, the expected is certainly not among it all.

To boil such a massive creation such as this is to bring to the table only the finest elements that has always made this niche sound in doom metal a real feast for the senses that only true masters are able to bring to life with fervor and splendor. Right from the beginning, Meltem brings both of those in absolute heaps without a shred of comprising nor cut corners to be had throughout the absolute entirety of this captivating performance.

LISTEN to “Mare Nostrum” on Bandcamp here.

FOLLOW Meltem on Instagram here.