Review by Adam M on May 11, 2015.

Obsequiae play a form of black metal that has a strong medieval influence. This style is not far from the celtic mood that Saor creates, as a reference point. The atmosphere created is melodic and dense by these songs. Also, there is an overall epic feeling that accompanies the music. This is nicely complemented by subtle harp playing on the short instrumental pieces. The feeling Obsequiae evokes is a pleasant and welcoming one throughout this release.

It also has the tendency to sound like it is culturally doing justice to the medieval time period. The problem here lies in the simplicity of the sound. In comparison to another melodic band, Dissection, one can see the greater power of that band that is created via more guitar riff layering. Also, the song-writing skills of this band overshadow this vocalist whose tone of voice is probably something a number of black metal fans will appreciate more than I. However, much like Panopticon’s release last year, it’s the atmospheric elements that take center stage and overpower the music in the grand scheme of things. Passages move along with emotional presence despite being minimalistic in style. Though there is a folk feeling to the passages, there is an equal amount of focus on the black metal aspect that is conveyed most prominently through the vocals.

The entire release culminates with one of the more powerful tracks in Orphic Rites of the Mystic. Aria of Vernal Tombs is long enough to have a potent effect on the listener, but not so long as to make the listener tired of the music. The overall experience is a highly passionate one that fans of melodic black metal and folk will probably enjoy even more than I did. Fans of the previous highly touted release by Obsequiae will probably find plenty to enjoy as well.

Rating: 8 out of 10