Devin Belanger Reacts: Unpacking DOOM’s Dark Agendas

Devin Belanger, the man behind Miles Away, opens with a nostalgic nod to Mick Gordon’s legendary soundtracks from DOOM 2016 and DOOM Eternal. In a tone oozing with admiration, he shares how those metal-infused, synth-heavy tracks influenced his own musical journey. Devin’s enthusiasm isn’t just about fanboying; it’s a profound acknowledgment of how these soundtracks shaped his career path. The raw, intense energy of DOOM’s past music played a pivotal role in rekindling his passion for producing darker, heavier sounds. It’s clear that for Devin, unraveling these new tracks from DOOM: The Dark Ages is more than a mere reaction; it’s a reunion with an old friend. So buckle up, because this is not just critique—it’s a personal saga about influence and inspiration.

Diving headfirst into ‘Infernal Chasm’, Devin’s ears catch the classic Doom vibe instantly. The moment the guitar tones hit, it’s like a jolt of nostalgia mixed with anticipation. The high-pass filtered guitars scream Doom, yet Devin notices a deliberate shift towards traditional metal. The synths are lurking in the background, almost shy, giving the guitar a front-row seat. It’s a bold choice—one that deviates from Mick Gordon’s signature synth-forward style, which made the DOOM soundtracks legendary. But hey, it’s not about replacing Gordon; it’s about offering a fresh spin without losing that iconic edge. Devin drops some knowledge, describing how the mix lacks a bit of that crispy top-end shine, often filled by heavily clipped synths. And while the aggression in the breakdowns is appreciated, there’s a hint of longing for that chaotic industrial symphony so synonymous with DOOM. Yet, the vibe is undoubtedly solid, embodying a raw metal spirit that long-time fans might find refreshing.

Devin’s reaction to ‘When the Shadows First Lengthened’, which serves as the main menu theme, is nothing short of electrifying. As soon as the track rolls out, he’s hooked—and who wouldn’t be? The orchestration here is sublime, weaving together strings and tribal drums to craft a soundscape that’s both tender and ominous. Unlike the first track, this one dives deeper into the core of DOOM’s haunting charm. Modern synths like the Pro One and Hydrosynth make their presence felt, adding layers upon layers of dense, eerie atmospheres. Devin is mesmerized by how the song builds its tension, playing with dynamics and silence in a way that only seasoned producers dare to tread. Synth textures blend seamlessly with acoustic elements to create a track that not only harks back to the iconic DOOM lineage but elevates it into something undeniably original. It’s everything a DOOM fan could want—thrilling, unpredictable, and undeniably heavy, capturing the dark ages theme in perfect harmony.

Wrapping things up, Devin is convinced that Finishing Move Inc. have crafted a worthy successor to the DOOM legacy. While the first track might have flirted a bit too much with classic metal, ‘When the Shadows First Lengthened’ hits all the right notes. Devin reflects on how evolving the soundtrack identity is not just about matching the past, but also pushing the boundaries to create something fresh. He’s keenly aware that while some might miss the intense synth layers, the creature as a whole showcases a new direction with its own merit. It’s this willingness to innovate while paying homage to the roots that makes this soundtrack a winner. For Devin, diving into these tracks has been like rediscovering a beloved mixtape—one that’s been remixed with fresh beats and unexpected turns. He even teases a fan rendition, putting his own spin on DOOM: The Dark Ages. Now, that’s something to look forward to! The groove of the soundtrack may have changed, but its soul remains undeniably DOOM.