ALBUM REVIEW: A Valediction – Obscura
The last few years have been a bit of a whirlwind for OBSCURA, with three members of the band choosing to depart and leaving founding member Steffen Kummerer to assemble a new line-up. This series of events turned out to be a blessing in disguise as we have witnessed the return of long-standing members Christian Münzner and Jeroen Paul Thesseling to the band, as well as drum maestro David Diepold. With this refreshed line-up in tow, the band are ready to unveil their latest release and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the form of A Valediction which arrives on November 19th via Nuclear Blast Records. How will this release stack up against their already phenomenal back catalogue?
Forsaken commences with a grand and opulent flourish of melodies that builds in intricacy as it progresses. Prominent, full-bodied bass lines, extravagant sweep picking and clinical drum work are all stitched together with caustic growls. Whilst the overarching technicality is ever present, this feels like a less frenzied and more refined iteration of OBSCURA that allows for breathing space to ensure maximum effectiveness rather than becoming overpowering. The most extensive track by some margin evaporates in an instant as you are so immersed in the vibrant, colourful textures. Solaris dials up the intensity with furious, energetic waves of instrumentation. Crushing blast beats form a formidable backbone, allowing for the guitar work to roam free and cause chaos. The dual riff segments are simply exquisite and are reeled off in impeccable fashion. A Valediction possesses a very tense demeanour which is only heightened by the swift pacing and aggressive riff patterns. The ebbing and flowing shifts keep you on the edge of your seat.
When Stars Collide surges forth with an enticing tempo that refuses to budge. Exhilarating groove runs through the track and forges a powerful alliance with the turbo charged drum work. Soaring vocal work is a welcome surprise and exciting addition to OBSCURA‘s ever expansive arsenal. In Unity takes an ominous, dark turn with monstrous riffing and a blackened tone for added bite. The twisting, turning rhythm leaves you with baited breath, wondering what may be revealed next. Devoured Usurper feels like a modern take on the infamous MORBID ANGEL classic Where The Slime Live, with its gruesome vocal lines and jarring guitar work. Its stomping mood and destructive nature are laced with pure venom. The track becomes even more savage as it unfolds. The Beyond dives headfirst into a pile of sweeps and wild proficiency that seamlessly mesh together to craft a maniacal tapestry that is too irresistible to avert your gaze from.
Orbital Elements II is a nod back to their Cosmogenesis album, following similar stylings but injecting a string of impressive lead sections and captivating melodies into the mix. The drum segments unleashed in this track are mind blowing. The Neuromancer reprises the dramatic and menacing mood previously instilled and amplifies it to devastating effect. Punishing volleys come thick and fast and show little sign of remorse. The multi-layered guitar work will leave you needing to scoop your jaw up off the floor. In Adversity ensures the well-oiled machine is still firing on all cylinders, continuing to power through rapid arrangements with utmost precision. Heritage has zero intention of allowing this release to depart with anything less than a triumphant burst of euphoric tones. A commanding vocal performance sits proudly alongside one final round of breath-taking musicianship.
By self-admission, OBSCURA have stayed firmly on the side of extreme metal in the past, avoiding implementing particular elements for fear of going against their initial vision, but stepping out of these preconceived confines has enabled them to create one of their most impressive releases to date. A Valediction is a gleaming example of what a band can accomplish when they are not shackled to certain ideals and it has allowed OBSCURA to find new and inventive ways to prove why they are one of the most polished bands in the world. The razor sharp production and frightening consistency are only a few reasons why this release is easily one of the best albums of their career and this year in general.
Rating: 10/10
A Valediction is set for release on November 19th via Nuclear Blast Records.
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