Formed in 2021 from disparate tribes of the Welsh extreme underground music scene, Ofnus immediately focussed all their energy into perfecting their song writing and developing a unique musical identity. Not for them the customary route of publically growing and maturing over the course of countless small gigs. When they chose to emerge from the shadows they did so resplendent in their power, the edges of their blades honed to perfection, their atmospheric black metal characterful, individual and charismatic. By the time the summer days of 2023 were dying they had signed to international metal label Naturmacht Productions, released their debut album, Time Held Me Grey And Dying to rapturous applause and performed at the UK’s most prestigious all metal festival – Bloodstock Open Air. With these achievements behind them Ofnus are now ready to unveil their second album, the staggering exploration of grief that is Valediction…Valediction carries the listener on a heart rending, soul scouring journey through the process of grief, from the shock of a life changing, traumatic event, through denial, anger, futile bargaining, devastating depression and sorrow to, ultimately, acceptance and new beginnings or spiritual imprisonment in endless darkness. Ofnus have not only captured the essence of these torrid emotions, but the progression from one to the next and the complete arc of tragedy and potential redemption. First single and opening track, ‘The Shattering’ dismantles us with its shocking impact, but also explores the confusion within the chaos, the moments of silent emptiness within the raging tumult of events. The overwhelming sense of sadness and loss grows subtly in the background of each track; lurking behind the resolute refusal of the unbearable truth that is ‘Reflections Of Delusion’, underpinning the blasting attack, grand drama and sweeping melodies inflamed by fury of ‘Throes Of Agony’. All leads eventually to the twin endings of ‘Valediction’ and ‘Alazia’ – ‘Valediction’ gradually introducing the first rays of light to the once impenetrable darkness with an absolutely breathtaking deftness of touch, ‘Alazia’ crushing in its oppressive fear, awe-inspiring in its utter hopelessness. Valediction is possessed of a rare, fierce beauty, an artistic accomplishment that will stand the most rigorous tests of time.
Mixed and mastered by William Philpot and Abraham Fihema, who brought so much from Time Held Me Grey And Dying, Valediction is blessed with a sound that gives life and vibrancy to its myriad intricacies and textured touches – and the artwork of Ben J that adorns its cover is simply the perfect visual accompaniment to its sonic splendour. Valediction will be released by Naturmacht Productions on February 28th and an incomparable listening experience awaits for all who embrace it.
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