TEMPESTUOUS FALL is the death/doom project of Dis Pater and returns after 12 years, and it's inspired by classical mythological tales of the katabasis and anabasis of six mortal or half-mortal figures, Theseus, Psyche, Heracles, Ulysses, Orpheus and Aeneas. The album has six songs, and "Theseus – Encased in the Stones or Hades" is first. The opening is not what I expected…cello strings, and clean, solemn melodies. Harsh vocals follow, but the solemn melodies remain in tow. The song begins to grow darker as it moves. "Psyche – Temptation of the Divine" begins with thick, rich organ notes, and transitions to guitar and vocals. It's a slow mover. Harsh vocals combine with a melody line that stays firm, and clean vocals provide another side of the song. It's very sad, but also beautiful.

"Heracles – Dark is the Home of the Underworld" is another dark offering that revels in both the beauty of melody, and the heartbreak of regret. Clean vocals accompany harsh vocals, and although the entire song feels solemn, it's also catchy at times. "Ulysses – Requiem of the Sea" combines charming melodies with filthy vocals…sort of like a beauty and the beast to me. Dis elongates the melody so that it takes its time sinking in. "Orpheus – In Dark Deathly Grey" begins with a folky palate. Harmonized, clean vocals and guitars lead a dimly lighted path through the darkness. It's a curious but pleasing sound on an otherwise gloomy album.

"Aeneas – Guide Me Home" is the final song. It begins with cello notes and very solemn tones. Home seems so far away. In keeping with the Doom elements of the album, this song is very gloomy. It stays in that realm for what seems like days, even months, but approaching the end, you can see your home finally. Overall, this was a nice album to snuggle up with on a cold day, and I found the solemn tones to be oddly comforting. Elements of Doom and Death Metal combine with melody into a recipe that was just so easy to listen to.