Good things come to those who wait, supposedly. Melbourne’s progressive melodic black metallers, Ne Obliviscaris’ debut album has been in gestation for the best part of five years. 2007’s lengthy three track demo, “The Aurora Veil”, laid down a solid, and even at times astounding, foundation with their expansive violin laden passages draped over towering Opeth and later Enslaved-like riffing. However, an overwhelming amount of issues plagued the release of “Portal of I”, originally meant for release in 2008, then in 2009, then in 2010… you get the idea. From family tragedies to members leaving to (French born) guitarist Benjamin Baret being deported back to France due to visa issues, Ne Obliviscaris have certainly had a rough time of it. Thankfully, Portal of I is an enthralling fruit of their labour, overall.
The three songs of the demo have been re-recorded, and a few minor alterations have been made, other than having a much more lush production. Some of the changes are questionable but for the most part, the band has retained its verve. “Tapestry of the Starless Abstract”, which opened the demo, suitably opens this album and in many ways encapsulates all of Ne Obliviscaris’ strengths, with searing black metal screeches from lead vocalist Xenoyr and violinist/clean vocalist Tim Charles closing out the song with his near-operatic wail.
Read the rest of the review after the jump!
Much of the melody and blissful passages mean it’s a stretch to even call Ne Obliviscaris black metal anymore but they’re certainly still coming from that school of thought. A song like “Xenoflux” is simmering with equal measures of caustic aggression and lush melody. Sustaining these two conflicting elements so beautifully within one song, always flowing to a logical conclusion, is probably the band’s greatest strength. This band gets the prog label thrown at them, but this is an album that is actually quite progressive, as you can truly hear the progression this band has made as song writers from the demo to the album.
They’ve utilised some folky elements to superb effect in various moments, adding just another interesting layer to their oeuvre and by album closer, “Of Petrichor Weaves Black Noise” have truly made an impact and suitably round off the album is stunningly climactic fashion.
At 71 minutes, these Australians have sculpted out a vast album for their first and it seems appropriate given the length of time it took and expectations that had mounted. It’s not perfect of course, but nothing is, and the band can safely breathe a sigh of relief in the wake of “Portal of I”’s release. Just don’t take five years for the next one, please.
“Portal of I” is out on Welkin Records or via Aural Webstore for Europe.
Chris
May 20, 2012 at 2:12 pm
Thats simply just beautiful music. You guys always turn me on to the greateset stuff.