Artist: Death in June Album: The Wall of Sacrifice

Year: 1989
Duration: 43:01

A Critical Review of Death in June's 'The Wall of Sacrifice'

Death in June is a music artist credited with paving the way for the neofolk genre of music in the early 1980s. The genre typically blends traditional folk music with industrial or electronic sounds, accompanied by provocative lyrics that explore themes of paganism, nationalism, and other controversial topics. The Wall of Sacrifice is one of Death in June's most lauded works, showcasing their signature sound and exploring existential themes. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into the album, analyzing its best songs, innovative parts, and providing a critical review of it.

The Wall of Sacrifice comprises 10 tracks that span a range of musical styles and themes. One of the standout tracks is Giddy Giddy Carousel, which is a haunting and seductive song that features a hypnotic looping melody and poetic lyrics about desire and love. Another noteworthy song is Hollows of Devotion, with its mesmerizing guitar and percussion, and vocals that capture a sense of longing and melancholy.

The album's most innovative parts probably stem from the unique blend of traditional folk instruments and electronic or industrial sounds. This is evident in tracks like Leper Lord, where dark and brooding guitar riffs are complemented by synthesizers and percussion, creating a hypnotic and immersive soundscape. Similarly, The Maverick Chamber features an eclectic mix of tribal drums and industrial beats, creating a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere.

However, while The Wall of Sacrifice showcases Death in June's artistic prowess and creativity, it has been criticized for its questionable lyrics and endorsement of far-right politics. Some of the songs contain explicitly fascist or neo-Nazi imagery and slogans, which have drawn the ire of anti-fascist groups and fans of the group alike. As such, the album creates a moral dilemma for many music listeners, as they must balance appreciating the music with the troubling ideological content behind it.

In conclusion, The Wall of Sacrifice is arguably one of the most important albums in the neofolk genre. It showcases Death in June's unique blend of traditional folk music and electronic sounds, creating an immersive and otherworldly atmosphere that captivates listeners. However, the album's problematic content cannot be ignored, and it has generated controversy and backlash over the years. Ultimately, those who choose to listen to the album must do so with an informed and critical ear, reflecting on the music's artistic merit while also taking into consideration the moral implications of its themes and lyrics.