The convergence of video game culture and metal music has long been a fascination for many musicians. Now, an elite group of guitarists has breathed new life into the soundtrack of Cult of the Lamb, a roguelike fantasy epic. This collaboration not only pays homage to the genre but also showcases the profound influence of video game soundtracks on contemporary metal.

Experience the Power of Metal in a Whole New Realm

The Birth of a Unique Musical Journey

The concept for this ambitious project originated from an unexpected source. An unnamed drummer from a prominent American metal band initially approached Mammoth Studios with the idea of infusing the game's soundtrack with a metallic edge. Despite their abrupt disappearance, producer Sam George remained undeterred. He enlisted Monuments drummer Mike Malyan to lay down the instrumental foundation, followed by handpicking an all-star lineup of guitar virtuosos to bring the vision to life.The result is nothing short of extraordinary. Each guitarist brought their unique style and creativity to the table, transforming the original compositions into something entirely fresh yet unmistakably metal. The synergy between these talented artists has created a soundtrack that resonates deeply with both gamers and metal enthusiasts alike.

A Symphony of Inspiration

For many involved, the project was a dream come true. Matt Heafy of Trivium, who has harbored aspirations of scoring video games since his youth, found inspiration in the lore and visuals of Cult of the Lamb. His track, "Ashes from Ember to Inferno," draws heavily from the iconic Chrono Trigger, aiming to transport listeners to a star realm. The process was seamless, blending visual and musical elements instantaneously, creating a magical experience that felt almost effortless.Sean Long of While She Sleeps shared similar sentiments. Video games have always held a special place in his heart, and the opportunity to contribute to this project was irresistible. For Javier Reyes, known for his work with Animals As Leaders and Mestis, it was a chance to explore a different creative avenue. By combining power chords with melodic elements, he crafted riffs that mimicked the original themes while adding his signature touch. Even Josh Baines of Malevolence, accustomed to writing from scratch, relished the challenge of reworking pre-existing compositions.

Collaboration and Mutual Respect

The mutual admiration among the guitarists is palpable. Sean Long praised Josh Baines for his distinctive riff style, noting how it has evolved over the years. Josh, in turn, expressed awe at the caliber of talent surrounding him, particularly highlighting Matt Heafy’s influence on his musical journey. Javier Reyes admired Matt’s technical prowess, even jokingly attributing his black belt in jiu-jitsu as a testament to his all-around skill.Scott LePage of Polyphia echoed similar sentiments. The collaborative spirit of the project allowed him to reimagine familiar melodies in innovative ways. Unlike writing for Polyphia, where the process involves multiple members contributing ideas, this project offered a more focused approach. It challenged him to adapt to unfamiliar time signatures and keys, ultimately leading to a sense of accomplishment and growth as a musician.

Gear and Innovation

The gear used by each guitarist played a crucial role in shaping the final product. Sean Long relied on his EVH Icon head and Charvel San Dimas signature guitar, complemented by a Whammy pedal for added depth. Josh Baines showcased his Ibanez LA Custom Shop guitar, along with tones from his Heavy Artillery Quad Cortex tone pack. Scott LePage utilized a variety of instruments, including his Ibanez KRYS10 and SLM10 for lead work, and the Meshuggah M80M for heavier sections. He experimented extensively with the Whammy pedal, incorporating octave shifts and pitch bends to create a dark, atmospheric sound.The use of the Whammy pedal stood out as a common thread among Scott LePage and Sean Long. Both guitarists emphasized its significance in defining their individual sounds. Scott highlighted how acquiring his first Whammy during the project led to innovative techniques, while Sean noted its role in making his playing instantly recognizable.

A Legacy in the Making

The release of Cult of the Lamb: Hymn of the Unholy marks a significant milestone in the intersection of gaming and metal. The soundtrack not only enhances the immersive experience of the game but also stands as a testament to the enduring impact of video game music on modern artists. With vinyl and merchandise now available through Devolver, fans can delve deeper into this captivating world, where the boundaries between genres blur and new possibilities emerge.