I’ll be straight with you, I’m a guy who is drawn towards great artwork. So I often find myself checking out an album, or a book based on the cover, despite how the old adage goes. If ‘Ossadas’, the sophomoric full length album from Portuguese Black/Funeral Doom Metal band Carma hadn’t dropped into my inbox to review, based on the uninspiring artwork that looks to have had no thought put into it whatsoever, I’d never have given it a second glance. And the only loser in that situation would be me, because ‘Ossadas’ (Portuguese for Bones) is a very lengthy, yet impressive album. Intro track ‘Leirão 1’ feels like it could develop into a rain soaked Dark Synth ‘Hall of the Mountain King’ at any moment, and from there the album expands outwards into a methodical bout of gut wrenching vocal growls, sombre harmonies and meandering guitar rhythms, all kept steady and true by a solid drumming performance and deep, rumbling bass display. And all of this surrounding some haunting, monastic sounding ambient sections that captivate and build both the intensity and grandeur of the album. Don’t expect some draggy, lethargic Funeral Doom marathon though, because despite the expansive tenure of this opus, the Black Metal influence that is so prevalent throughout conjures up some truly explosive moments of hostility and aggression, nestled firmly between the bands more dominant melodic style. ‘Ossadas’ is the bands first offering since 2015 and has been well worth the wait. A multi-instrumental masterclass that knows no bounds nor limits when it comes to creativity, this is a rewarding listening experience from a band stacked with song writing talent.
Carma – Ossadas
Info
- Bands: Carma
- Labels: Monumental Rex
- Release Formats: CD
- Release Years: 2023
- Review Date: February 15, 2023
- Authors: Marksson
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