Into Oblivion – Winds of Serpentine Ascension EP (2020)
Canada
Hessian Firm
Into Oblivion is a band that has flown under my radar for quite some time. That being said, I feel highly indebted to the fact that I was recently appointed to review their music. Into Oblivion is one of those bands that seamlessly weave melody with aggression, coupled with their predilection for classical music and the foundation of their sound built on the romantic period. All this makes for a rather engaging listen, especially when the execution is as auspicious as it is on Winds of Serpentine Ascension. Musically, you could say there's a great of deal of inspiration taken from the early '90s Gothenburg scene, with bands like At The Gates, Sacramentum, Eucharist and the like; however, it is also worth mentioning that Into Oblivion's music is acutely well balanced in the sense that they do not compromise heaviness for melody. Winds of Serpentine Ascension is definitely an EP in the proper sense, as it only contains 3 songs, yet clocks over 30 minutes. The songs are epic, lengthy, and engaging – you could listen to it several times, yet come back after a while and discover something new. If it's compelling and well-crafted black/death metal you seek, then look no further – this EP packs a meaty punch. (HT)