Ne Obliviscaris is a progressive extreme metal band hailing from Melbourne, Australia. The band consists of Xenoyr on vocals, Tim Charles on violin and clean vocals, Matt Klavins and Benjamin Baret on guitars, and Martino Garattoni on bass.
With their unique blend of progressive metal, black metal, and classical music, Ne Obliviscaris has garnered a dedicated following over the years. Their previous albums have been highly acclaimed and cemented their place in the progressive metal scene. Exul is the band’s highly anticipated fourth album, due to be released on the 24th of March 2023 on Season of Mist Records. Exul is a masterpiece of progressive extreme metal that showcases the band’s exceptional musicianship and songwriting skills. The album, featuring six epic tracks, takes the listener on a journey through complex rhythms, soaring melodies, and brutal vocals that blend in perfect harmony.
“Equus” the album’s opener, immediately sets the tone with its intense and intricate guitar work, driving rhythms, and soaring violin melodies. This track has everything that you’d expect from Ne Obliviscaris, but I especially like the haunting violin moments which remind me somewhat of dark country. The sudden finish to the Equus leaves me wanting more.
“Misericord I – As the Flesh Falls” is the first of a two-track series. Again, we see a deep bass line repeating throughout. This track showcases the band’s ability to shift between heavy riffs and delicate, almost ethereal passages that create an emotional and engaging soundscape.
“Misericord II – Anatomy of Quiescence” follows, starting off gently and featuring haunting violin melodies. The first section is purely instrumental before soaring clean vocals which contrast perfectly with the brutal growls and screams. The track’s dynamic shifts in tempo and intensity so so good. God, I love this band!
“Suspyre” is one of the album’s standout tracks, featuring intricate guitar work and a driving rhythm that is perfectly complemented throughout. The track’s chorus is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, with its catchy hooks and powerful vocal performances.
“Graal,” the album’s penultimate track takes the listener on a journey through complex rhythms, melodies, and intense emotions. The track features some of the album’s most memorable moments which builds to a gentle acoustic guitar finish.
The album’s closer, “Anhedonia,” is the shortest on the album and is a haunting and beautiful track that perfectly encapsulates the emotions that the album evokes.
The track features delicate piano and a sound reminiscent of middle eastern music.
This song showcases the band’s ability to create a perfect balance between heaviness and delicacy.
Exul is a stunning album that cements Ne Obliviscaris‘ place as one of the most innovative and talented bands in the progressive metal scene. The album’s intricate compositions, stunning musicianship, and powerful emotional impact make it a must-listen for fans of the genre.
Ne Obliviscaris: Facebook
Release Year: 2023
Label: Season of Mist
Category: Album
Country: Australia
Reviewed by Phil Bergersen
