Spew Forth Odium
(F.D.A. Records)
63:44min
As I listen to OPHIS it occurs to me what else might I’ve missed from Germany? I mean, when you think of traditional Doom or Death / Doom Metal, you think about the United Kingdom and when you think of Funeral Doom, you think of Finland and when you think about the heaviest band on the land, you think of DISEMBOWELMENT from Australia. From a Doom Metal standpoint, I think of Germany only when I think of WORSHIP. Yet, here we are with the fifth full length of OPHIS titled “Spew Forth Odium” which is a superb addition to the genre at large. The melodies are beautiful, serene and picturesque. The vocals drown into your consciousness delivering every word coupled with the burden of Atlas. Consistent across the entire record, they’re simply brilliant. I know, I’ve complained about this exact same thing in the past across other releases by other bands but with OPHIS, it is a strength that’s immediately visible and considering how well it is done, it’s truly welcome. Track # 1 ‘Default Empty’ at 9:04mins is the shortest track on this full length, however it is a wonderful representation of things to come. Starting off as being an accompaniment to desolation, OPHIS slowly weaves layers of sonic experience as we go along. Often, the rhythm is simple but considering how it holds the band together like a spine, I see how significant it is. In many ways it takes me to the simple yet groundbreaking approach of BLACK SABBATH, the pace of the drumming, the heaviness of the guitars etc. OPHIS can be truly remarkable if you simply sit back and give them the time! I also strongly suggest that you do, the rewards are indeed beautiful. As the band picks up pace with track # 3 ‘Conflagration Eternal’, the aggression is similar to that of NOVEMBERS DOOM whilst the melody mirrors the UK greats. OPHIS works like a machine with clockwork precision, there’s not a note extra here, everything is set to a pristine moment of time. I won’t go into the crushing heaviness of the guitars and the impeccable tone that often accompanies coffins into the ground on a rainy day. I mean, that’s a given, the point of focus however are the melodic soundscapes, they create an environment as beautiful as DAYLIGHT DIES whilst not losing the underlying heaviness. This song is a perfect companion to enjoying the majestic mountains in the midst of a Scandinavian forest. If you like your Doom Metal, slow, heavy and melodic, you must check this album immediately! This is sure to be one of the quality releases of the year. I’m positive F.D.A. Records will be quite pleased with this while I genuinely hope I can see OPHIS live sooner than later. Category: companion in the mountains! For more OPHIS information, please visit www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063786151023, label contact: www.fda-records.com
Vamsi Kanagovi
• OPHIS - Withered Shades (Matthias Auch)
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