Orphaned Land – The Never Ending Way of ORWarriOR

Origin : Israel

Genre : Folk / Death metal

Release : 2010

Album downloads only available to members

Album Info / Review

Intro:
Orphaned Land, the Israeli purveyors of Oriental Metal, return with “The Never Ending Way of ORWarriOR,” a sprawling double album that aims to encapsulate their entire sonic journey and philosophical core. This is not merely a collection of songs; it’s an ambitious, almost operatic, tapestry woven from the threads of their past, present, and a hopeful, albeit turbulent, future. The band, known for their unique blend of heavy riffs, traditional Middle Eastern instrumentation, and profound lyrical themes, dives deep into their established sound, refining and expanding upon it with a renewed sense of purpose. This is an album that demands a significant investment of time and attention, rewarding the listener with layers of complexity and emotional resonance.

Track Analysis:
“The NEVER ENDING WAY OF ORWarriOR” (Part 1) opens with the titular track, an expansive instrumental that immediately sets a cinematic and epic tone. It’s a journey through shimmering oud melodies and building orchestral arrangements, hinting at the grand narrative to come. “A Never Ending Way” is a more direct assault, featuring Kobi Farag’s signature guttural growls juxtaposed with Yossi Ronen’s soaring clean vocals, underpinned by a driving, almost thrash-like riff. The integration of traditional instruments here is seamless, with the kanun weaving intricate countermelodies. “Bodhi” slows the pace, offering a melancholic ballad driven by acoustic guitar and a poignant vocal performance, exploring themes of spiritual awakening and inner peace. The track builds gradually, culminating in a powerful, almost symphonic crescendo.

“The Path” is a masterclass in dynamic shifts, moving from a delicate, almost flamenco-inspired guitar passage to a crushing, groove-laden metal section. The interplay between the heavy guitars and the intricate percussion, featuring darbuka and riq, is particularly noteworthy. “Brother” is a more overtly political and emotionally charged track, with a chorus that is both anthemic and heart-wrenching. The vocal harmonies are particularly striking, conveying a sense of shared struggle and yearning. “The Enemy” unleashes a torrent of aggression, featuring blistering guitar solos and relentless blast beats, yet even in its ferocity, a melodic undercurrent persists, preventing it from becoming purely chaotic.

“The NEVER ENDING WAY OF ORWarriOR” (Part 2) begins with “The Ways of the ORWarriOR,” a track that feels like a direct continuation of the first part’s epic scope. It’s a more measured and introspective piece, allowing the emotional weight of the album to settle. “The Last Word” is a powerful ballad that showcases the band’s lyrical prowess and emotional depth. The piano arrangement is particularly affecting, and Farag’s vocals, though restrained, carry immense weight. “The World Is A Stone” returns to a heavier sonic palette, with a more pronounced use of djembes and other African percussion, adding a new textural dimension to their sound. The call-and-response vocals are a standout feature.

“The Road to Jerusalem” is a more overtly folk-infused track, with a prominent bouzouki melody and a singalong chorus that feels both ancient and urgent. The lyrical content, as always with Orphaned Land, is layered with meaning and historical context. “The Final Word” is an instrumental piece that serves as a bridge, a moment of reflection before the album’s grand finale. It’s characterized by its ethereal atmosphere and intricate melodic lines. The closing track, “The Way of the ORWarriOR” (Reprise), brings the entire journey full circle, reprising themes and motifs from earlier in the album, creating a sense of catharsis and completion. It’s a powerful and emotionally resonant conclusion.

Conclusion:
“The Never Ending Way of ORWarriOR” is a monumental achievement for Orphaned Land. It’s an album that doesn’t shy away from its ambition, delivering a rich and multifaceted listening experience. The band has successfully synthesized their diverse influences into a cohesive and compelling whole, showcasing their growth as musicians and storytellers. While the double album format might seem daunting, the meticulous craftsmanship and thematic unity make it a rewarding endeavor. This is an album that speaks to the universal human experience of struggle, hope, and the enduring search for peace, all wrapped in a sonic package that is both brutal and beautiful. It cements Orphaned Land’s position as unique and essential voices in the metal landscape.