Ordh are a death metal band from the US and this is their debut album.
Blind in Abyssal Realms brings us 43 minutes of progressive death metal from current/ex-members of Barishi and Come to Grief. Ordh impress with their ability to being multiple elements together into a very satisfying whole.
Throughout Blind in Abyssal Realms you can feel the presence of ancient progressive rock influences and echoes of classic metal. The shadows of Death and Morbid Angel linger at the music’s periphery, while recent releases from acts like Ancient Death and Blood Incantation hover at the sidelines. Importantly though, what makes Ordh so impactful is that they have taken all of this, and more, and made it their own. This is music that has had a lot of love, care, attention, and time poured into it, and it shows.
The Ordh sound is both direct and labyrinthine. So, if you need some further reference points, think of bands like Inter Arma, Mortiferum, Spectral Voice, Sulphur Aeon, and Tomb Mold. Ordh are strong enough to stand on their own merits though.
Melody is used like a weapon, an atavistic spear tip that strikes through the rest of the music to pierce even the strongest hide. These streaks of esoteric resplendence are the most striking thing about Blind in Abyssal Realms upon first encounter with it, but they’re not the only notable component of the songs. Before long, a technical depth reveals itself, as does a firm grasp of atypical dynamics and progressive structuring. Amidst this, almost unexpectedly, there are also hooks, and some massive riffs. The hooks dig deepest over time, but snag the listener hard nonetheless.
Ordh’s approach to songwriting is one that balances extremity and atmosphere, but in unusual ways that paradoxically sound natural and unforced. The cavernous death growls keep things rooted in damp, fertile soil, while the music rages and ranges as it will around them. The songs are further enhanced by synths and lighter introspective moments, making for a well-rounded album in totality. It’s richly atmospheric, but also has bite.
Blind in Abyssal Realms is an engaging, rewarding record. There’s no filler, just quality material from a band with a well-rendered vision for what they want to achieve. And achieve it they have.
Essential listening.
Wonderbox Metal 