Oldd Wvrms are a doom/industrial sludge/post metal band from Belgium who have recently released their latest album `Abysséphale`. In their press blub it was pretty succinct as they shared “As an instrumental band, we do not feel the need to explain the creative process of this album in detail, just know that its conception was a cathartic result of depression. The first song relies on the cerebral side of this depressive state, as the second one depicts the physical side of it.”
As previously alluded to there are two tracks that make up the thirty plus minutes of this release with `Omniscient` and `Omnipotent`.
`Omniscient` is an early 17th century word from medieval Latin and equates to all knowing, all wise or all seeing, and this titled track leads us in, beginning with a pounding drumbeat which kind of announces the arrival of the piece. A desolate guitar riff and rhythmic drum cadence join, and the journey becomes fairly absorbing. We then enjoy a period of thoughtful reflection. At the mid-point, the number becomes much more not aggressive but forceful in nature. I found myself being sucked in at this stage as if I were hypnotised. It then shimmers for a brief spell before returning and reprising the sound that led us in, like closing a circle or loop.
`Omnipotent` is another Latin come old French word which translates as almighty or infinite in power and the title of the closing number which has an almost quivering anxious introduction before developing a kind of introspection. There are recurring complex and intricate riffs interspersed over a guiding bass line and drumbeat. It becomes fairly dynamic and potent a third of the way through with a heavier atmosphere. There`s a quite unconquerable almost indomitable passage before we veer into a gentler enthralling cruise before the number closes out with a resounding shredding thrash like call to arms.
`Abysséphale` was a really interesting listen which was well thought out and had an emotive intelligence about it which I found thoroughly absorbing and reflective.
I`m sure that you`ll determine your own interpretations and meanings of these arrangements after you`ve given them time to be absorbed.
Rating 8.5/10
