Review by Dominik on January 5, 2025.

On the one hand complexity supports the storytelling aspect of black metal, helping to convey its often mythic or even philosophical themes. In such a case it is the friend of black metal's narratives, providing a tapestry for its epic tales. On the other hand overly complex compositions can detract from the raw, primal essence that defines the genre's roots. Then complexity becomes the enemy of black metal's unpolished, unfiltered expression, diluting its visceral power.

On Litany Of Iah, the French Obsidyen's last album, the band tries to combine the best of both worlds. The result is a maze of intricate storytelling, relentless sonic ferocity, and a few moments where even the listener feels like an ancient astronaut, hopelessly lost in the vastness of space. It is an album that is both demanding and rewarding, but before diving into the music, be sure you have the mental energy and focus required—this is no easy listen and certainly not meant for background music.

Lyrically, Obsidyen obviously found their inspiration in the eccentric theories of nutcase Erich von Däniken. He is the Swiss author of several pseudoscientific books about possible or even probable extraterrestrial influences on early human culture, and one of the main figures popularizing the ancient astronaut hypothesis. Whether you dismiss his ideas as pseudoscience or enjoy them as entertaining speculation, the band successfully captures the essence of his main theories and transports them into a style of music perfectly suited for such cosmic themes: complex black metal.

'An Ancient Age' begins with an oriental melody, which evokes the mystique of ancient Egypt. It's a subtle nod to Däniken's claim that the pyramids were constructed with the help of "higher technological knowledge". While listening, you may have visions of sun-scorched deserts and alien crafts disguised as obelisks. But don't let the folkloric elements lull you into a false sense of comfort. This is still black metal. Just as you are still contemplating whether the big rock in your garden could be the missing tip of Sphinx's nose, the delicate melodies are torn apart by ferocious blast beats, crushing guitars, and vocals that sound like a wild boar. However, the moment you think you've understood the song's direction, the band veers off into unexpected terrain. It's a constant push and pull, forcing you to stay engaged or risk losing the thread entirely.

Generally, the music on Litany Of Iah is a balancing act. Obsidyen walks a fine line between atmospheric grandeur and unrelenting aggression. The whole album is an intricate, dynamic, and chaotic affair, demanding complete attention. It's not music you put on while folding laundry unless you want to accidentally summon an intergalactic deity. Tracks like 'The Passenger Of Nout' take their time to build an otherworldly atmosphere, echoing the eternal dimensions of the universe and the enigmatic beings Däniken claims to have shaped humanity. The band's ability to create this vast sonic expanse is impressive, and at the same time they never fully abandon the ferocity of their black metal foundation. Even during slower, more contemplative moments, the intensity remains palpable.

For those of you who don't list patience as their main virtue, I can recommend the album's title track, which stands out by cutting straight to the chase. It's a relentless assault from the very first note, mostly avoiding the labyrinthine structures found elsewhere on the album. In many ways, it feels like a reminder that Obsidyen hasn't forgotten black metal's primal essence, even as they explore more complex territory.

However, for all its artistic endeavors, the album's ambition comes at a cost, its complexity also being its Achilles' heel. If you don't dedicate enough time to Litany Of Iah, the songs risk sounding interchangeable. For me the constant shifts in tempo and mood can make it difficult to emotionally connect with single sections. It's the kind of record that demands repeated listens to fully appreciate. But even the most devoted fans of the genre might find themselves torn: is this brilliance or pretension? Friend or foe? Sometimes it's both.

In the end, Litany Of Iah is a challenging listen that walks the razor's edge between being a friend and an enemy of black metal. For fans who are willing to venture off the straightforward black metal path and navigate a maze of intricate compositions, the album offers a rewarding experience. But for those looking for immediacy or raw simplicity, it may be a step too far into the unknown.

Rating: 75 out of 100, because it's a bold journey into intricate black metal. It doesn't always succeed in balancing its complexity with the visceral impact that defines the genre. If you're up for the challenge, buckle up—but don't say I didn't warn you.