Epica – Consign To Oblivion - Album Streaming & Download

Origin : Netherland

Genre : Symphonic Black Metal

Release : 2005

Album downloads only available to members

Album Info / Review

Intro:
The Dutch symphonic metal titans Epica, a band whose very name conjures images of grand operatic arrangements interwoven with crushing brutality, return with “Consign To Oblivion.” This album, a pivotal work in their discography, stands as a testament to their mastery of blending the ethereal with the earth-shattering. Released at a time when symphonic metal was solidifying its place as a formidable force, “Consign To Oblivion” doesn’t just participate; it dictates. From the opening, a chillingly beautiful choral passage that hints at the tempest to come, to the final, lingering notes, the album unfurls a narrative of epic proportions, painted with a palette of orchestral grandeur and guttural aggression. It’s a sonic tapestry woven with threads of classical composition, progressive complexity, and the raw, unadulterated power of modern metal.

Track Analysis:
“Ad Vitam Æternam” immediately plunges the listener into a vortex of sound. The Gregorian chant intro, stark and resonant, is violently ripped apart by Mark Jansen’s signature growls, setting a tone of desperate struggle. Simone Simons’ soprano, initially a delicate counterpoint, soon soars with operatic prowess, engaging in a fierce dialogue with the driving double bass and intricate guitar riffs. The track builds with a relentless momentum, incorporating sweeping orchestral passages that add a cinematic sweep, particularly during the bridge where a melancholic violin solo cuts through the sonic maelstrom.

“The Phantom Agony” is a masterclass in dynamic contrast. It opens with a haunting piano melody before exploding into a furious onslaught of blast beats and razor-sharp guitar work. Jansen’s guttural delivery is matched by Simons’ crystalline vocals, creating a powerful duality that defines Epica’s sound. The chorus is an anthemic call to arms, elevated by the full force of the choir and orchestra, a testament to their meticulous arrangement. The guitar solo is technically proficient, weaving a melodic narrative within the song’s aggressive framework.

“Cry For The Moon” showcases the band’s penchant for epic, sprawling compositions. The ballad-like intro, featuring acoustic guitar and Simons’ emotive vocals, slowly morphs into a full-blown symphonic metal behemoth. The orchestral arrangements are particularly lush here, creating a sense of vastness and grandeur. The interplay between the clean and harsh vocals is exceptionally well-executed, conveying a palpable sense of anguish and defiance. The song’s extended instrumental section allows each musician to shine, from the intricate bass lines to the soaring guitar solos.

“Feint” offers a more progressive edge. The tempo shifts are more pronounced, with intricate riffing and complex rhythmic patterns. The orchestral elements are integrated seamlessly, adding layers of texture and depth without overpowering the core metal instrumentation. Jansen’s growls are more varied, incorporating a deeper, more menacing tone. Simons’ vocals remain a beacon of light, her melodic lines a stark contrast to the darker undertones of the music.

“Praise To The Courageous” is an instrumental interlude that serves as a brief respite, allowing the listener to absorb the album’s intensity. It’s a beautifully orchestrated piece, showcasing the band’s musicality and their ability to craft evocative soundscapes. The subtle shifts in mood and texture are expertly handled, hinting at the emotional weight of the tracks to come.

“The Embrace That Smothers – Part I” is a brutal descent into darkness. The opening is a crushing wave of distorted guitars and aggressive drumming, punctuated by Jansen’s visceral growls. The orchestral elements are used sparingly here, adding a sense of foreboding rather than grandeur. Simons’ contribution is more restrained, offering moments of haunting beauty that serve to amplify the song’s oppressive atmosphere. The track builds to a powerful climax, leaving the listener breathless.

“The Embrace That Smothers – Part II” continues the thematic exploration with a slightly more melodic approach, though the underlying ferocity remains. The interplay between Jansen and Simons is more pronounced, their vocal exchanges creating a captivating narrative of internal conflict. The guitar work is intricate and aggressive, while the orchestral arrangements provide a rich sonic backdrop.

“The Embrace That Smothers – Part III” concludes this powerful suite with a sense of catharsis. The song builds to an explosive crescendo, driven by a relentless rhythmic foundation and soaring vocal melodies. The orchestral elements are grand and triumphant, mirroring the resolution of the lyrical themes. The track’s epic scope and emotional impact are undeniable.

“Beyond The Belief” is a more accessible track, featuring a strong melodic hook and a powerful chorus. The symphonic elements are integrated with precision, adding a sophisticated layer to the song’s driving rhythm. Simons’ vocals are particularly captivating, delivering a performance filled with passion and conviction.

“Safeguard To Eternity” is a fittingly epic closer. It opens with a majestic orchestral fanfare before launching into a powerful and melodic metal assault. The track features a dynamic range, moving from moments of intense aggression to soaring, anthemic passages. The guitar solo is technically brilliant and emotionally resonant, leaving a lasting impression. The final moments of the album are a grand, symphonic outro, fading out with a sense of profound closure.

Conclusion:
“Consign To Oblivion” is not merely an album; it is an experience. Epica masterfully crafts a sonic landscape that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. The meticulous integration of orchestral arrangements with crushing metal instrumentation, coupled with the compelling vocal duality of Mark Jansen and Simone Simons, creates a truly immersive and powerful listening journey. This album stands as a cornerstone of symphonic metal, a benchmark against which future releases in the genre would be measured. Its thematic depth, musical complexity, and sheer sonic power solidify its status as a masterpiece.