The Pitch: Arizona symphonic blackened death metal band Ov Lustra continue their current concept cycle with a new mini album via Black Lion Records. FFO: Fleshgod Apocalypse, Carach Angren, Xaon
What I Like: Tempestas is a very solid little package. Not only are you getting 4 incredible new tracks; you also get the orchestral versions and 4 remasters from the previous self-titled album. But extra value aside, I'm just impressed with how powerful and consistent Ov Lustra's new material is. From the soul-piercing blackened shrieks to the massive classical instrumentation, it's a truly subjugating experience. And with the transition to the earlier works, you can even moreso hear how much the band's sound has evolved in just a year. They've really managed to step up the aggression and overall songwriting several degrees in a very short amount of time. The dynamics are broader, the emotions of increased intensity, and the guitar hooks more memorable. I'm especially fond of the infectious melodeath riffs and massive choral flourishes on "Ov Delicate Rage" and "The Orator."
Critiques: For all of its strengths, it still feels very familiar. This is another case of a band whose next key step needs to be carving out a niche that highlights their unique relevance to the genre.
The Verdict: Temptestas is an album that easily rivals those of even Fleshgod Apocalypse and Dimmu Borgir, and I wouldn't be surprised to find them touring on the same bill in the future. Ov Lustra are a band to watch moving forwards, and a welcome addition to the extreme symphonic releases of 2019.
Flight's Fav's: Ov Delicate Rage, The Orator
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
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