Ode

Looking at the cover of „Ode“, the fourth full length album by Portuguese one-man project Omitir, I have felt reminded of the also 2020 released new album by Danish outfit Afsky. Of course both acts are able to present a sound all of their own, but they surely have more in common than similar color tones used for the artwork. This is great and atmospheric black metal which is going to take you on a journey and tell you stories about Portuguese history and folklore. Albums like this might need a bit of time and concentration, but once you have put yourself into the right circumstances you will be highly rewarded with a deep and satisfying listening, proving once again why black metal is so much more than just a lot of noise and aggressive music.

Most of the tracks come along with a very melodic approach, with soaring lead flourishes swirling through each song. The main promise is a delivery of that sweet cold and melodic black metal base, immediately transporting the listener to mystic places and dark forests. Bright synths lift the music and carry the weight of the lyrics, while the clean and crisp production keeps things sharp. Blast beats keep battering against your skull and atmospheric soundscapes of layered synths are setting the tone.

Beside the fast and aggressive parts there are also quite a lot of mid-tempo moments and tracks, helping to keep things interesting over the whole playing time. Whenever solos and lead parts are utilized, they are done in a raw yet melodic style with the music often capturing a slightly melancholic vibe. Every single track from this record has a melody and harmonies that you will have in your head all day long. The combination of tight riffs with tight drumming and beautiful melodies made by both, guitar and vocals is something that comes out in a special way here.

The harmonies used to give the tracks their own identification code are absolutely stunning, making the songs sound huge and epic. I can’t help but be a little in awe at the staggering scale of this album and all the effort and ambition which must have gone into its creation, and this just by one person. Band founder Gróvio really managed to write a captivating story being told via the music. Lighter and acoustic sections have been woven into the overall picture with ease, giving the whole affair additional layers. Check for example track number four “Flora” which might work its somehow obscure yet fascinating magic on you.

“Ode” is a real piece of art, without coming across being too heady or unorthodox. This is still a quite classic piece of black metal, but enhanced by some great ideas and a lot of atmosphere. I am aware of the fact that there are loads of bands and projects these days, but Omitir surely is worth keeping an eye on in the future.