This is the second album from UK black metal band Ofnus.
Ofnus, (who feature an ex-member of Agrona), present us with 58 minutes of atmospheric black metal on Valediction. I’d heard good things about the band’s debut album, (I need to go check that out), but this is my first time hearing Ofnus and they have exceeded expectations.
Ofnus play a modern form of black metal, but one informed by a few different eras. In essence, Valediction takes elements from the atmospheric, melodic, and symphonic subgenres, and uses them to forge something that has a voice of its own within the crowded underground arenas. It’s melody-rich, absorbingly atmospheric, and uses keyboard highlights well across the songs. There is an element of the symphonic style to the band’s material that I really like, bringing in a classic blackened majesty. There’s even a touch of pagan and folk black metal in places, appearing in the occasional epic section or melody.
The blending of different blackened ingredients works well for Ofnus. Valediction has character. With well-written songs that liberally plunder old and new influences to craft a quality contemporary black metal album, Ofnus have created something very enjoyable on Valediction.
All of the instruments are well-played and the musical performances hit the spot. The keyboards are notable, layering the rest of the music with mood and feeling. I also particularly like the vocals. These are snarls and growls with personality; the vocalist has a remarkably expressive voice, and his performance is engaging throughout.
We have a winner here. Valediction is a top tier black metal album. The album showcases strong songwriting, has plenty of variety and creative ideas, and demonstrates a firm understanding of how to effectively use black metal dynamics and mood-building techniques. With a wealth of charismatic presence and songs that are highly compelling, Ofnus have impressed.
Essential listening.
Wonderbox Metal 