Review by JD on November 18, 2014.

I have been reviewing a plethora of differently styled prog metal lately, and it seems that the scene is making amazing strides to become not only accepted – but becoming great to musicians who are expanding the music many times over. One such act is two-member US based prog/death metal specialists, Merging with Machines.

There is little in the way of information on Merging with Machines anywhere on the net, not even on their own rather sparsely made site along with their other band project called Aenigmata (my only lead went nowhere very fast). Be kind while I slog through this the best I can. The strong music and musical ethic is worth letting me go through this.

Quirky yet heavy with an eclectic edge that adds a certain mystique to everything they do Merging with Machines is a project that is pretty unusual. I was shocked at the sheer brutal power the band had, while they were still able to keep that certain high standard of musicianship that any prog band out there would offer out but some of it did not come across. As soon as the near comical death metal vocals exploded out and soured the music in one fell swoop. When the vocals left, the music made up for the Cookie Monster with copious amounts phlegm instantly.

I loved the music end of things as it was more than just brilliant, but the over the top death vocals obliterated the music - did little for the music and even took away from everything. I am torn here, as the music blew my mind yet vocals made me not want to listen. I will give an honest rating – and you will judge it on your own merits as well. I just can’t get over the music paired together with vocals that does not fit or do anything to coexist.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10

Review by JD on May 11, 2014.

I love the term ‘different’. As a metalhead, to me it means talent mixed with creativity, a dose of pure I-don’t-give-a-fuck attitude and some aggressive power. Some newer metalheads think it is archaic that the sorcery and dragons still come from some bands. Ronnie James Dio (RIP), who was one of the best metal singers in the world, sang about all swords and dragons in far fetched worlds - and still kicked serious ass. A two man band seems to be trying to bring a world of their own and are all in their own way. The immortal Dio would smile, I think.

Realmbuilder is a two man band, whom has released two other LP's before this one was given to me. Described as epic doom metal with some traditional metal leanings and fantasy styled lyrics – intriguing is the word that describes my thoughts. Grand, slow and heavy with a sort of symphonic element to it, this twosome’s seem to know how to craft interesting yet thundering music that sends you to a different world and all through music that is sparse and yet majorly powerful.

I love the world created of war, giants, warriors and hate they made. The story sometimes comes across a little flat, like a child’s story at times, but as a whole it is very engaging. With four songs, all of which I enjoyed with the longest over 12 minutes – it is one of the better concept albums that have graced this old headbanger’s desk in a very long time.

Realmbuilder has brought back the idea of a story – and has made it accessible. I am going off now to look up more releases from this impressive duo, even as I continue to listen to this album over and over again. Pick up a copy for your collections and see what I am talkin’ about. I think you will not be disappointed. RJ would love this.

Rating: 9 out of 10