First steps for Obsidian Scapes.
With this self-titled debut EP, Obsidian Scapes, the band comprising LBN (vocals), RCC (guitar/keyboards), TBRT (guitar/keyboards), RK (bass) and HZL (drums) also marks its collaboration with the Darkness Shall Rise label, with whom it will release its debut album very soon.
The band’s only original composition is entitled Endless Sea of Dead Mirrors, and it perfectly represents this dark, ponderous Black Metal that eventually transforms into a wave of darkness where intense, hypnotic clean vocals are perfectly integrated. The contrast between the vocalist’s tone and the abrasive Old School rhythm is exhilarating, but despite its length, the track passes quickly enough, giving way to At My Funeral, an exclusive cover of the Japanese band Sigh, well known for its unique touch. The oppressive Doom influences are perfectly transcribed on this airy composition, and the moments when the vocals remain in the background are simply impressive, as are those when they reappear to give a more unhealthy dynamic with muffled growls, which turn into agonized rales on the final moments.
With this self-titled debut EP, Obsidian Scapes offer us an overall slow, heavy and suffocating sound rooted in Atmospheric Black Metal and a few hints of Doom. Melancholy can’t wait, but it seems to bode well.
80/100