Release Date: 4 February 2022
Song Count: 5
Rating: 8.0/10
Description:
A dive into a less frequently acknowledged and highlighted subtype of metal is ahead of us as today's reviewed album, Born in Obsidian, throws the listener straight into the cold and deep ends of some of the most experimental and esoteric music out there. The debut release of the niche yet promising band Kurokuma, Born in Obsidian dabbles in a wide variety of sounds and influences to pull from, combining metal extremity with rhythms and instruments from ancient Latin American music.
At its core, the soundscape of the tracks this album provides is, from a perspective of musical theory, quite simplistic, opting to often ritualistically loop and repeat melody lines of the guitars and only sparingly introduce new sonical themes within what's already been established. This is well-layered, however, in the weight, power and volume of each and every instrument it has in its arsenal, making full use out of crash cymbals, intricate drums and distorted bass to provide something grand and booming that follows in the footsteps of the less melodic and more ambient forms of metal it represents.
This serviceable foundation, of course, is far from what sets Born of Obsidian truly apart from anything else one may ever hear. That would be the minutities in the drumwork with its aggression, polyrhythmic nature and Latin American roots to emphasize the narrative and lyrical themes of Aztec, Mayan and Olmec culture. This cultural influence lends these tracks not only theme-appropriate titles and lyrics based on deities, rituals and legends from these parts of the world, but also, in a sense, their soul and personality.
A great example of these two traits coming together brilliantly is the slow-burning 8-minute track "Jaguar", which begins with a strikingly simple and almost catchy beat and slowld yet progressively evolves itself into a louder and richer sound that truly shows what inspiration, talent and the daringness to be different can achieve.
An enchanting and captivating listen crafted with thought, care and musical skill that is worth more recognition than it receives for its innovation and willingness to use everything it's got to create an inspiring piece of art.