Given the sheer reach that doom metal has ascertained for itself over the decades, it really shouldn’t be a surprise to see just how far the sound has come for all that it offers and all that it still dares to be in its numerous forms. We’re treated to an undeniable plethora of different themes and approaches that the genre has gotten down to a science, yet there’s always room for taking things just a little bit further with the biggest variable in such an experiment simply being the hands that are crafting the work in question. Doom has no shortage of inspirational talent that are trying their best to bring something new or impactful to the table. In channeling deep melancholy and sorrow throughout their debut EP, it’s here that Where Innocence Died accomplishes what very few others can.

To be perfectly fair to what has been accomplished in this relatively unassuming EP, this is not doom metal in the strictest definition. Rather, what Where Innocence Died has pulled off here feels more akin to theater centered around the very gloam of human existence, sorrow and sadness of loss and bereavement oozing forth from the very DNA of what’s brought forth throughout these four tracks. Showcasing an overwhelming sense of understanding when it comes to the profound suffering that can infect a single soul, it’s the absolute entirety of “Shades of Memories” that captures the human experience in some of its darkest moments to offer us something that’s as heart-wrenching in its grief while simultaneously being undeniably gorgeous in its composition. Where Innocence Died takes its time. Allowing the flavors and the atmospheres to permeate every given facet of its creation, “Shades of Memories” offers no reprieve for the soul even in the moments when the metal pulls back and allows for a grand display of talent from an eclectic mix of a violin, cello, grand piano, oboe, and flute to this effort as impactful as it is intense in its obvious themes. The sky seems to darken at the very presence of Where Innocence Died and it must be made clear that even when “Shades of Memories” finds itself dipping into the realms of death and black metal, the overtures of doom that serve front and center for this effort is something that cannot be denied for all that it demands from the deepest core of the human experience.

While doom has never had a shortage of bands out there seeking to tap into the deep emotions that plague the spirit when a loved one leaves us, it’s been a long time since anyone has been able to come close to what Where Innocence Died has accomplished here. Only four tracks to call its own, but it’s in every given minute that “Shades of Memories” leaves nothing to chance and captures your heart at your lowest moment, enchanting you and offering naught but further despair.

“Shades of Memories” releases on October 31st via Godz ov War Productions!

LISTEN to an advanced track from “Shades of Memories” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Where Innocence Died on Facebook here.

FOLLOW Where Innocence Died on Instagram here.