Review by George Stiglic on November 10, 2024.

This is the debut release from a Polish atmospheric doom metal project rooted in the historic city of Kraków. The album carries a depth and maturity that feels almost timeless, evoking the powerful melancholic atmosphere that defined the genre's early days. Had this album been released in the mid-90s and garnered the attention it deserves in the metal press, I have no doubt it would now be regarded as a classic, standing alongside seminal releases like "Brave Murder Day" by Katatonia. Its dense, atmospheric soundscapes and haunting melodies blend perfectly with the doom metal roots, capturing that elusive balance between heaviness and sorrow. This album has all the hallmarks of a future classic, with the potential to resonate deeply with listeners for years to come.

The music on this record captivates from the very first notes. Dreamy, atmospheric themes with female vocals alternate with intense riffs, an onslaught of gripping melodies, and even fast sections with blast beats. But don't be alarmed—the primary vocals on the album are deep, brutal growls interspersed with high-pitched screams. The Wanderer has a distinctive sound, showing clear professionalism and the author’s talent. While many bands attempt experimental approaches that often lead to disjointed results, here everything falls into place naturally, even though you can trace blues and jazz influences throughout the album.

Not much is known about the band leader, but the music suggests a solid grasp of music theory or simply exceptional talent—or perhaps both. The album's sound quality is impressively crafted as well. This wonderer reinforces my belief that for true recognition, excellent music alone is sometimes not enough; press support is crucial. The reverse is also true: some second-tier bands with mediocre material gain relative popularity by focusing on PR over substance and visual stuff.

I highly recommend this album to all fans of dark and melodic doom metal.

Rate: 8.5 out of 10