Vixenta’s The Oubliette is as much of a hauntingly beautiful journey as it is one of ferocious barbarity, that masters the true diseased heart of black metal, while refusing to allow itself to be shackled by the old tropes and traditions of those who came before. There are enough bull riffs here to satisfy Euronymous in his pomp and circumstance, but also proof that Vixenta are more than willing to experiment with softer tones and acoustic guitars and various other instruments that would normal be shunned by purists of the genre. And that is one of The Oubliette‘s biggest strengths.
From the opening notes, it immerses listeners in a soundscape that’s the musical equivalent of having your head stamped on by hob nail boots and yet, strangely, this act is cathartic, even more so when Vixenta take their foot off the gas, and subsequently off your face, when they choose to shift tact and allow toy a moment to breathe. This showcases the band’s impressive ability to become melodic chameleons, and though the bulk of Vixenta’s The Oubliette is the blackest of metal, their understanding of composition should not be overlooked.
The album’s production is exceptional, allowing each instrument to shine. The guitar work stands out, blending intricate melodies with powerful riffs that convey both despair and hope. The raw, impassioned vocals perfectly match the music, delivering lyrics of cosmic horrors waiting to devour us all, while the rhythm section powers through with a relentless, almost mythic intensity.
Standout tracks such as Demise and Weeping Plains really highlight Vixenta’s talent for crafting songs that are both heavy as a ton of lead and so deeply atmospheric you feel as if you are drowning in them. For me, these are my two stand out tracks, but there isn’t a bad song on the entire album. The ebb and flow of intensity throughout keeps The Oubliette engaging from start to finish, making it an immersive experience that rewards repeated listens.
The Oubliette is a testament to Vixenta’s growth as a band and their ability to push the boundaries of their genre. It’s a must-listen for fans of black metal, wrapped in a dense fog of atmosphere, and it firmly establishes Vixenta as a band to watch.
You can buy The Oubliette by Vixenta over on their Bandcamp Page.
