Obsequiae – Aria of Vernal Tombs
Hailing from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Obsequiae was originally founded as Autumnal Winds in 1998. After an interval of time inactive, the band returned in 2007 with their new name. In 2011, Obsequiae released the great album “Suspended in the Brume of Eos” and now, four years later, they return with “Aria of Vernal Tombs”.
This is a band that I discorevered only recently, actually bout a week only, recommended by a friend. I heard their material and was highly impressed. Obsequiae lists so many bands that have, somehow influenced their music that I simply cannot quote them all here. Nevertheless, if you look at their Facebook official page and, afterwards, listen to their music, you will see that this has indeed resulted in a rich, unique and striking sound.
Although I do find Pagan/ Folk Metal, in this case more of a Medieval Metal, one of the most interesting genres, I sincerely think that there are many bands, which are not worth our time. It is not that I think that all should be taken with the utmost seriousness possible, but some bands simply does not create music with passion, with feeling, ending up as “party music” and nothing more. Then comes a band like Obsequiae that revives your hope in the genre, with an exquisite, ardent release that brings emotion and enthusiasm.
The music is just gorgeous, well, for those that are interested in extreme metal blended with medieval touches. It feels mystical, hypnotic and enchanting. Being very sophisticated, the compositions are an amalgamation of Pagan tunes, with that medieval feel and a raspier Black Metal, along with some Doom Metal. Never, not even once, it feels cheesy, as it can easily happen with this genre if not tastefully created. I guess it is not easy to find bands with the calibre of Obsequiae, one that balances the more extreme as well as the calmer parts magnificently, harmoniously crafting the “middle-ages” influences as well.
As for the variety presented in “Aria of Vernal Tombs”, you can indeed find a notable tapestry of instrumentals and compositions in the folk melodies, carefully constructed together, all melded with beautiful harps and astounding rhythm guitars, anguished, desperate vocals and very efficient drumming. This is, in my modest view, a truly outstanding work, filled with intensity, devotion and creativity. Authentic, warm, profound and imposing, “Aria of Vernal Tombs” is a work of art.
When it comes to the production of this release, all instruments and vocals sound clear. It is a bit “raw”, but this fits perfectly Obsequiae’s music. My dear friends, I invite you all now to check this, in my humble opinion, masterpiece. You can do it legally by visiting the band’s label official Bandcamp page and, if you enjoy what you heard, please, do what is possible for you in order to promote/ support their artistry work.
Take care.
Grade: 9,8/10
Band: Obsequiae
Album: Aria of Vernal Tombs (2015)
Label: 20 Buck Spin
Tracklist:
- Ay Que Por Muy Gran Fremosura
- Autumnal Pyre
- Until All Ages Fall
- L’amour Dont Sui Espris
- Pools of a Vernal Paradise
- Anlace and Heart
- The Anchoress’s Orison
- In the Absence of Light
- Wilweorthunga
- Des Oge Mais Quer eu Trobar
- Orphic Rites of the Mystic
Obsequiae is:
Tanner Anderson – Guitar, Vocals, Bass
Vicente La Camera Mariño – Medieval Harp
Andrew Della Cagna – Drums
Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/epicuscastlecusmetallicus
Official 20 Buck Spin Label Bandcamp: http://listen.20buckspin.com/
All photos belong to their rightful owners.
May 23, 2015