Belgian band Splendidula blends black metal and doom with a personal introspective approach and explores themes of loss and depression on the new album“Absentia”.
On the title track solemn vocal harmonies flow gently through the evocative atmospheric grandeur while guest vocalist Tim Yatras of Austere invokes obscure forces leading to a menacing blackened rhythmic assault.
“Echoes Of Quiet Remain” shines for the theatrical vocal duet, featuring legendary Aaron Stainthorpe, surrounded by delightful baroque atmospheric arrangements and grief stricken melodic passages that will naturally entwine with savage rhythmic blasts.
“Kilte” revolves around venomous rhythmic patterns triggering oppressive feelings and ultimately embracing gloomy soundscapes featuring bittersweet guitar phrases and delicate vocals.
“Let It Come To An End” reveals emotional frailty as a dramatic melodic essence emerges through a convoluted rhythmic ensemble that can easily acquire an ominous blackened fury demanding extra speed and fierce riffage.
Throughout “Absentia” Splendidula present a vulnerable side focusing on sophisticated melodies without sacrificing their primal extreme metal roots.