Fragarak - A Spectral Oblivion (EN)

Thanks to the moving Transcending Obscurity Label, which is known for publishing Master for example, the second work "A Spectral Oblivion" of the in 2012 founded Fragarak follows after "Crypts Of Dissimulation" (2013).

My first thought was: TIME!!! If you look at the album length, you know that they spent a lot of time to get this piece done. The second thought was that this might become really exhausting. To listen to progressive Death Metal over such a long duration might get on your nerves. The first thought I can confirm, the second thought not, so be reassured. Despite the fact that some songs have a duration of about ten minutes, the tracks runs very well.

Why is that? Well, certainly the reason is that the musicians play at a tremendously high level. The guitars race around in one moment, then suddenly play acoustic parts, which soon drift towards power metal. The drums do the same thing, for example, they fire raw doublebass attacks , which dissolve suddenly in hi-hat / pelvic strokes. In addition there are massive choirs and the consistently keen main voice, which can also growl and which is softend by a clarinet.

Let us get to the question, whether this is enjoyable. Well, I have to admit that I do not really like that. This is less due to the mix of styles, but rather due to the fact that everything written above is true, but still does not create a real atmosphere. The piece is too smooth and overproduced, thus it doesn't give off the feeling that you need to get up and freak out.

The songs are overloaded and do not sound progressive in the classical sense, but rather orchestral. After song 4 at the latest I had the feeling to know the record already inside and out without being able to say that the one or the other song was totally cool. Therefore, there are no audio examples, because everything sounds the same. Of course, that may be advantageous for a disc which has a constant level. Here, however, it is more like I am a bit bored. The parts are clapped together and it is also often very cheesy. Everyone probably know the feeling of needing to go to the bathroom during a movie, but you don't pause the movie because you feel like you are not missing anything. I think that is fitting!

Conclusion:
The musical level is high, there are many ideas, but the feeling is missing. Friends of Dimmu Borgir, Cradle Of Filth and above all Therion can risk an ear. Death metal fans with a preference for brutal stuff, might be disappointed.

Rating: 5/10

Recommendation: nothing