Dogma – Dogma (Album Review)

There is often an inner struggle for many with the concept of authority. It is one where we question our own existence, beliefs, and ability to stand up for our own ideals. A plague of humanity throughout history, at times the rules set by an overbearing religion and/or governmental organizations may seem absurd, illogical, or many times, quite hypocritical. Ideas many have discussed within literature, art, and film, the band known as Dogma explore this further in their music.

A bit of an enigma at first, with no personal identities revealed, Dogma is a 4-piece band of women whose sound lies within the perimeters of Heavy Metal. Portraying the images of nuns, however in a more taboo fashion with the inclusion of Black Metal styled make up, they view themselves as a sisterhood rather than individual entities. However, the collective of Dogma consists of Lilith on vocals, Lamia on guitars, Nixe on bass, and Abrahel on drums.

Together, Dogma, make up a very solid band of musicians that combine their playing ability with imagery that is quite striking. Perhaps offensive to some, and seductive to others, no matter who you are, there is immediately a curiosity upon first laying eyes on Dogma. Part of their intent, Dogma seeks to raise the awareness of one’s self, promote curiosity and self-discovery without prejudice, striving to be the best version of yourself, being truly self-aware, but most importantly, championing your ability to think freely.

As mentioned, ideas explore many ways throughout history by those who dare think outside the box, Dogma present them in a very compelling fashion on their forthcoming self-titled album, due out on November 17, 2023 through the label MNRK Music. An album which has been in the works for some time, many were first exposed to Dogma over 1 year ago with the release of the song and music video “Father I Have Sinned.” From here, seemingly laying dormant for a little bit, they now emerge in grand fashion with 11 tracks that make up this introductory full-length album.

Very much a concept record, it feels like a theatrical production with a tale of breaking the bonds of religious constraint. Starting at the beginning, our subject is conflicted as to which path they want to take… stay true to the cloth, or surrender to human desire. From here the story evolves as our character fights with inner thoughts, but soon finds their way to further exploration into their curiosity and self-realization. In all, it is really a story of self-empowerment filled with tons of thought-provoking ideas begging you to devise your own thoughts.

This explained, the question some may have next might be – what does Dogma sound like? Well, as mentioned, these ladies are no question a Heavy Metal band. Upon first glance you might think there would be Black Metal elements amidst their sound vocally and musically. However, proving you should never judge a book by its cover, Dogma’s sound is much more rooted in traditional Heavy Metal. With this, Lilth’s vocals are clear, pronounced, as well as high soaring. This is while the guitars are melodies, plus quite speedy, matched with drums and bass that strike hard. In all, there are also elements of Power and Symphonic Metal all mixed together here as well.

Listening to Dogma you can tell that a good deal of thought, preparation, and passion was put into this music. As a whole, the album is well-plotted Heavy Metal that keeps the pace, never hits a dull point, all while ebbing and flowing through a story seamlessly. Unnecessary to point as any one particular song to turn to, if you really are looking for a reference, recommended pieces include “Forbidden Zone,” “Made Her Mine,” “Carnal Liberation,” “Bare To The Bones,” and the dynamic “Make Us Proud.” In all, this album offers you Heavy Metal done right all while enticing you with an underlined eroticism that is difficult to deny. Unique, Dogma are a promising entry into the Metal world, and Cryptic Rock gives their self-titled album 4 out of 5 stars.