Obvurt were formed in Quebec, Canada by guitarist Philippe Drouin and from the beginning the band’s purpose was to challenge preconceptions, to push boundaries and to take death metal into previously unexplored territories. Combining exceptional musicianship with equally exceptional song craft the band have been able to carve out sonic edifices of rare power and hypnotic atmosphere. Their live performances are breathtaking and their 2022 debut album, Triumph Beyond Adversity was afforded international critical acclaim – with Distorted Sound Magazine noting, “there is enough technicality to impress and even astound, without ever feeling unnecessary or forced as so many have before” and predicting that Obvurt possessed everything they needed for “domination of the tech-death landscape”.
The second Obvurt album, An Alternate Dimension, will soon be upon us, but first there is the matter of the first single to be taken from its trove of treasures – ‘Hold On To Hope’. Philippe Drouin performs the new single on a Dean Custom Michael Angelo Batio ‘Burnt’ double guitar. It’s an incredible, impossible looking instrument which Philippe plays with stunning mastery. However, whilst the wild guitar and the technical ability on display are the first things that grab your attention about ‘Hold On To Hope’, it’s the qualities of song writing and musicality that leave a lasting impression. Inspired by the unbelievable courage and fortitude of guitar maestro Jason Becker, who has lived with Lou Gehrig’s disease for more than thirty years, yet still finds ways to be creative, to compose and to record, ‘Hold On To Hope’ is a testament to perseverance and the power of the human will. It’s an intricate but eminently listenable piece, with its twisting, turning, interweaving guitar patterns and melodies creating a web of remarkable beauty. With this track Obvurt show how heavy, intense music can also be hugely uplifting.
A video for ‘Hold On To Hope’ is available now, filmed by Louis-Martin Laberge, which captures Philippe performing the song on his double guitar amongst the fallen autumn leaves. It’s a poignant image, filmed in fading light at the dying of the year…but the hope of spring to follow is always there.
Look for the new album, An Alternate Dimension at Brutal Mind.
Watch the video for ‘Hold On To Hope’ now at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnfYteCPU1g
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