ORACLES OF OPPRESSION
The Frequency Illusion
Self-Released
Seeing a band multiple times without having a recorded document makes the heart grow fonder for frequencies lost within the live experience. ORACLES OF OPPRESSION have been at it for a few years, laying waste to venues every few months with their aggressive take on technical death metal. But, that is a little misleading, as main throat Harley Kataklysm does not so much gurgle as orate with clarity his vision. There is no tomorrow for anyone.
This most modern take on death metal with thrash influence is not without precedent as the prevailing theory here is whether or not something djents but ORACLES OF OPPRESSION are a different beast entirely, each instrument (predominantly guitars) snaking and weaving a complex pathway through the listener’s ears. It doesn’t hurt that the band are, like most metal acts, consummate professionals and gentlemen, and the joy of creation permeates debut offering The Frequency Illusion.
Beginning with arguably a throwaway bit of not too much, the proceedings get underway neatly with stand out second track, “Starrcade”. Do not let that piece be your only foray though, because by the time “Cloud Chasing” comes in, with temolo picking everywhere eschews a more black metal sentiment in favor of heft and metallic glory.
The influence of MESHUGGAH cannot be understated here but that does not mean the chugging riffery is all for naught nor is it purely derivative. “Let The Devil Take Me Home” demonstrates musicians in clear vision, scintillating guitar leads lulling the listener into another realm whilst ever present presence Ty on the drums pops and locks in the groove without room to spare a single hit. The man’s sense of nuance and panache is truly a sight to behold, the playing precisely what needs to for the form. Nothing more, and nothing less.
Culminating in penultimate final track “On My Grave Will The French Bring Back Quails”, ORACLES OF OPPRESSION make me hopeful for another foray into their looking glass. RIYL forward thinking metal. Just go buy it, support some good ole boys.
3.75 Out Of 5.0
