The Obsidian Conspiracy

Century Media

Nevermore’s much anticipated follow up to 2005’s era defining masterpiece, This Godless Endeavor is slated to hit shelves on June 8^th here in the states and promises to instill yet another work of history making genius for these North Western Metal giants. After two of Nevermore’s clan (Dane/Loomis) offering up solo projects in the band’s interim, fans are more than primed for the next installment.    

The Obsidian Conspiracy finds the band taking a bit of a step back with a sound very reminiscent of one of their most demanding albums to date, the equivocally forthright Dead Heart In A Dead World. While they do pay homage to past works such as Dead Heart they still mange to offer some new attributes to their style and sound, although perhaps a bit subdued in the overall scope of the larger picture. The classical leads by Loomis are few and far between this time around and more emphasis is put on the almighty riff for each song, especially prevalent in such tracks as “The Day You Built The Wall” and “Moonrise (Through Mirrors Of Death)”. Frontman Warrel Dane’s ever haunting vocal capabilities and lyrical connotations are also extremely concentrated making The Obsidian Conspiracy another significant addition to their impressive catalogue. It should be noted that the album gains strength as in progresses and by the time cuts such as “Without Morals” and “She Comes In Colors” come around the full flavor of Nevermore’s embodiment are made known. These are probably two of the finest presentations found on the CD and are sure to become fan favorites. The CD closes with the tile track which boasts the highly respective drum work of skinsman Van Williams and re-instills the thrash roots of Nevermore’s beginnings.

The Obsidian Conspiracy is everything a fan could hope for and then some. The joint production team of Peter Wichers (Soilwork ) and the extraordinary talents of Andy Sneap give new life to the bands premise. A video for the song “Emptiness Unobstructed” is currently in production and will mark a great first single from this album. The addition of two covers (“The Crystal Ship” – The Doors and "Temptation" by The Tea Party in the deluxe edition make this a must have for every Metal fan.

-Priest