Ne Obliviscaris: Celebrating ‘Citadel’ and ‘Exul’ on the 2024 United Kingdom and European Tour

Australian progressive metal band Ne Obliviscaris has etched its place in the annals of modern metal with a distinctive sound that melds diverse musical influences. Since its formation in 2003, the band has captivated audiences with a fusion of progressive, black, and death metal, enriched by classical, jazz, and avant-garde elements.

Ne Obliviscaris’s unique sound and innovative approach have made them a standout act in the metal scene. Their music is characterized by the seamless integration of diverse genres, including progressive, black, and death metal, enriched by elements of classical music, jazz, and avant-garde styles. This fusion creates a rich, multi-layered auditory experience that appeals to both metal purists and those with broader musical tastes. The band’s willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of conventional metal has garnered them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim, positioning them as trailblazers within the genre. Their intricate compositions and emotionally charged performances are a testament to their artistic vision and technical prowess, making each album release and live performance a significant event in the metal community.

History

Ne Obliviscaris emerged in the fertile metal scene of Melbourne, Australia, a city renowned for its vibrant and eclectic music culture. The band’s inception can be traced back to 2003 when violinist and vocalist Tim Charles and guitarist Benjamin Baret decided to create a project that transcended conventional metal boundaries. They were soon joined by Xenoyr, whose harsh vocal style would become a signature element of the band’s sound. The initial lineup was completed with the addition of Brendan “Cygnus” Brown on bass, Matt Klavins on guitar, and Dan Presland on drums.

From the outset, Ne Obliviscaris set themselves apart with their ambition to blend seemingly disparate musical genres. Their early compositions were marked by a complexity that challenged listeners, intertwining intricate melodies with brutal riffs and dynamic shifts in tempo and mood. The release of their 2007 demo, ‘The Aurora Veil,’ showcased their potential and laid the groundwork for their future endeavors.

‘The Aurora Veil’: A Prelude to Greatness

‘The Aurora Veil’ served as a crucial stepping stone for Ne Obliviscaris, encapsulating their nascent sound and artistic vision. The demo’s three tracks—‘Tapestry of the Starless Abstract,’ ‘Forget Not,’ and ‘As Icicles Fall’—exhibited a sophisticated interplay between Charles’s melodic violin lines and Xenoyr’s guttural growls. This juxtaposition created a unique auditory experience that set them apart from their contemporaries.

Critics and fans alike were quick to recognize the band’s potential. Reviews praised the demo for its technical prowess and emotional depth. Despite its rough production quality, ‘The Aurora Veil’ demonstrated a level of musicianship and compositional skill that belied the band’s relative inexperience. This early acclaim was instrumental in building a dedicated fan base and securing opportunities for live performances.

Ascending to Prominence: ‘Portal of I’

The release of Ne Obliviscaris’s debut album, ‘Portal of I,’ in 2012 marked a significant milestone in their career. The album culminated nearly a decade of creative evolution, showcasing the band’s matured sound and refined technical abilities. ‘Portal of I’ received widespread acclaim for its ambitious scope, blending progressive metal with elements of classical music, jazz, and even flamenco.

Tracks like ‘And Plague Flowers the Kaleidoscope’ and ‘Of Petrichor Weaves Black Noise’ exemplified the band’s innovative approach to composition. The interplay between Charles’s clean vocals and violin, Xenoyr’s harsh growls, and the intricate guitar work of Baret and Klavins created a rich, layered sound that was both complex and accessible. The album’s lyrical themes, often exploring existential and philosophical questions, added an additional layer of depth to the listening experience.

‘Portal of I’ was not just a critical success but also a commercial one. The album’s release was followed by extensive touring, which helped to cement Ne Obliviscaris’s reputation as a formidable live act. Their performances were noted for their intensity and precision, often described as a mesmerizing blend of technical skill and raw emotion.

‘Citadel’: A Monument of Musical Mastery

In 2014, Ne Obliviscaris released their sophomore album, ‘Citadel,’ building on the success of their debut, ‘Portal of I.’ This album marked a significant expansion of their musical horizons, incorporating a broader array of influences and refining their sound. The result was a more cohesive and polished effort, reflecting the band’s growth and maturity.

‘Citadel’ is structured into three multi-part suites: ‘Painters of the Tempest,’ ‘Pyrrhic,’ and ‘Devour Me, Colossus.’ Each suite showcases the band’s talent for crafting extended compositions that are both intricate and engaging. The interplay between the different sections of each suite creates a narrative progression, inviting listeners on a journey through diverse musical landscapes.

The album opens with the suite ‘Painters of the Tempest,’ which is divided into three parts: ‘(Part I): Wyrmholes,’ ‘(Part II): Triptych Lux,’ and ‘(Part III): Reveries from the Stained Glass Womb.’ This suite exemplifies the band’s ability to blend various musical styles and influences, from the aggressive intensity of black metal to the intricate melodies of classical music. The suite’s structure creates a compelling narrative progression, drawing listeners into an immersive musical experience.

Following this, the second suite, ‘Pyrrhic,’ continues the exploration of musical diversity with its dynamic shifts and contrasting elements. The track ‘Pyrrhic: Parasitic’ stands out for its use of complex time signatures and intricate guitar work, creating a sense of tension and release that is both exhilarating and emotionally resonant.

The album concludes with the suite ‘Devour Me, Colossus,’ featuring some of the band’s most influential and emotive music. The suite’s closing track, ‘(Part I): Blackholes,’ is a tour de force of technical skill and emotional intensity, with soaring melodies and thunderous rhythms providing a fitting climax to the album.

Lyrically, ‘Citadel’ delves into deeply introspective themes, exploring questions of existence, identity, and the human condition. These themes are conveyed through poetic and often abstract lyrics, adding an additional layer of depth to the music. The band’s ability to express complex emotions and ideas through their lyrics and music is one of their defining characteristics, and ‘Citadel’ exemplifies this talent.

The production of ‘Citadel’ is another standout aspect of the album. Working with renowned producer Troy McCosker, the band achieved a crisp and polished sound that highlights their technical skill and attention to detail, creating an immersive and engaging listening experience.

‘Citadel’ received universal acclaim from critics, who praised its ambitious scope and meticulous craftsmanship. The album’s success solidified Ne Obliviscaris’s position as one of the leading bands in the progressive metal genre. It also opened up new opportunities for the band, including tours in Europe and North America, further expanding their international fan base.

Through its ambitious composition, emotional depth, and technical prowess, ‘Citadel’ stands as a landmark in Ne Obliviscaris’s discography, showcasing their unique ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and captivating whole.

‘Urn’: A New Chapter

In 2017, Ne Obliviscaris released their third studio album, ‘Urn.’ This album marked a new chapter in the band’s artistic journey, further refining their sound and exploring new thematic territory. ‘Urn’ was notable for its darker and more introspective tone, reflecting the band’s evolving creative vision.

The album’s six tracks, including standouts like ‘Intra Venus’ and ‘Eyrie,’ showcased the band’s continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of their sound. The interplay between the different musical elements—harsh and clean vocals, intricate guitar work, and melodic violin lines—created a dynamic and emotionally resonant listening experience.

‘Urn’ received widespread acclaim from critics, who praised its ambitious scope and meticulous craftsmanship. The album’s success further cemented Ne Obliviscaris’s position as one of the leading bands in the progressive metal genre. It also opened up new opportunities for the band, including tours in Europe and North America, further expanding their international fan base.

‘Exul’: A Symphony of Extremes

‘Exul,’ released in 2023, represents a culmination of Ne Obliviscaris’s journey, capturing the essence of their sound while pushing it into new realms. The album is characterized by its intricate compositions, blending aggressive riffs with melodic passages, and creating a symphony of extremes that captivates listeners.

The opening track, ‘Equus,’ sets the tone for the album with its complex structure and dynamic shifts. The song begins with a haunting violin melody, gradually building in intensity as layers of guitars and drums are introduced. This progression creates a sense of anticipation, leading to an explosive climax that showcases the band’s technical skill and emotional depth.

Throughout ‘Exul,’ the band explores themes of existential angst, personal struggle, and the search for meaning. These themes are conveyed through poetic lyrics and powerful vocal performances, with Charles’s clean vocals starkly contrasting Xenoyr’s guttural growls. This interplay between clean and harsh vocals adds a rich, emotional texture to the music, drawing listeners into the band’s world.

The track ‘Misericorde I – As the Flesh Falls’ exemplifies the album’s thematic and musical depth. It features a series of intricate guitar solos interwoven with melodic violin lines, creating a tapestry of sound that is both complex and engaging. The lyrics delve into themes of identity and self-discovery, reflecting the band’s ongoing exploration of existential questions.

‘Exul’ also stands out for its production quality, with each instrument meticulously recorded and mixed to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The album’s production highlights the band’s attention to detail and commitment to creating a polished, professional sound that enhances their musical vision.

‘Citadel’ and ‘Exul’: Dual Pillars of Innovation

Ne Obliviscaris’s releases, ‘Exul’ and ‘Citadel,’ stand as monumental works in their discography, each representing distinct yet interconnected facets of their artistic evolution. Both albums reflect the band’s commitment to expanding the boundaries of metal, showcasing their technical prowess, emotional depth, and innovative spirit. While ‘Exul’ and ‘Citadel’ each represent distinct phases in Ne Obliviscaris’s artistic journey, they share several key characteristics that define the band’s sound.

Both albums showcase the band’s ability to blend diverse musical influences, creating a unique and innovative sound that transcends traditional genre boundaries. This fusion of styles is a hallmark of Ne Obliviscaris’s music, setting them apart from their peers and establishing them as leaders in the progressive metal genre.

The albums also share a commitment to technical excellence and emotional depth. Ne Obliviscaris’s musicianship is evident in the intricate compositions and complex arrangements that characterize both ‘Exul’ and ‘Citadel.’ This technical skill is complemented by the band’s ability to convey deep and often intense emotions through their music, creating a powerful and resonant listening experience.

However, there are also notable differences between the two albums. ‘Citadel’ is distinguished by its ambitious structure and thematic complexity, with its interconnected suites creating a sense of narrative progression. In contrast, ‘Exul’ focuses on the interplay of extremes, blending aggressive and melodic elements to create a dynamic and captivating sound.

These differences reflect the band’s ongoing evolution and willingness to experiment with new ideas and approaches. While ‘Citadel’ represents a culmination of the band’s early influences and creative vision, ‘Exul’ showcases their continued growth and innovation, pushing the boundaries of their sound and exploring new musical territories.

The Legacy of ‘Citadel’ and ‘Exul’

‘Citadel’ and ‘Exul’ stand as dual pillars of Ne Obliviscaris’s discography, each representing a unique and significant phase in their artistic evolution. These albums showcase the band’s commitment to innovation, technical excellence, and emotional depth, setting them apart as leaders in the progressive metal genre.

The albums also share a commitment to technical excellence and emotional depth. Ne Obliviscaris’s musicianship is evident in the intricate compositions and complex arrangements that characterize both ‘Exul’ and ‘Citadel.’ This technical skill is complemented by the band’s ability to convey deep and often intense emotions through their music, creating a powerful and resonant listening experience.

Through their intricate compositions, diverse influences, and profound lyrical themes, Ne Obliviscaris has created a body of work that resonates with listeners on both an emotional and intellectual level. ‘Citadel’ and ‘Exul’ exemplify this approach, offering a rich and varied listening experience that continues to captivate and inspire fans worldwide.

As Ne Obliviscaris continues to push the boundaries of their sound and explore new creative possibilities, the legacy of ‘Citadel’ and ‘Exul’ will endure as a testament to their artistic vision and the transformative power of their music.

Evolution of Sound and Musical Influences

Ne Obliviscaris’s sound has continually evolved throughout their career, reflecting their diverse influences and commitment to pushing metal music’s boundaries. Their music is characterized by a fusion of progressive, black, and death metal, enriched by classical music, jazz, and avant-garde elements.

One of the band’s most distinctive features is its use of the violin as a central component of its sound. Charles’s melodic violin lines add a unique dimension to the music, creating a contrast with the heavy guitar riffs and harsh vocals. This interplay between different musical elements is a crucial aspect of Ne Obliviscaris’s sound, contributing to the richness and complexity of its compositions.

Ne Obliviscaris has cited various musical influences, from classical composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven to contemporary metal bands like Opeth and Emperor. These influences are reflected in the band’s intricate and multi-layered compositions, which often feature complex time signatures, dynamic shifts, and a blend of melodic and aggressive elements.

In addition to their musical influences, Ne Obliviscaris has also been inspired by literature, philosophy, and visual art. Their lyrics often explore existential and philosophical themes, delving into questions of identity, mortality, and the human condition. This intellectual depth adds an additional layer of complexity to their music, resonating with listeners emotionally and intellectually.

Cultural and Philosophical Themes

Ne Obliviscaris’s music is not only defined by its technical complexity and innovative sound but also by the depth of its lyrical themes. The band’s lyrics often explore existential and philosophical questions, drawing on various cultural and intellectual influences.

One of the recurring themes in Ne Obliviscaris’s music is the exploration of the human condition. Their lyrics often delve into questions of identity, mortality, and the nature of existence, reflecting a deep engagement with philosophical ideas. This intellectual depth adds a layer of complexity to their music, resonating with listeners on both an emotional and intellectual level.

Ne Obliviscaris has also drawn inspiration from literature and visual art. Their lyrics often incorporate references to literary works and artistic movements, adding a rich cultural dimension to their music. This interdisciplinary approach reflects the band’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of metal music and exploring new creative possibilities.

In addition to their engagement with philosophical and cultural themes, Ne Obliviscaris has also addressed social and political issues in their music. Their lyrics often reflect a concern with contemporary social and political realities, exploring themes such as environmental degradation, social injustice, and the human impact on the natural world. This engagement with social and political issues adds an additional layer of relevance and urgency to their music, resonating with listeners on a broader cultural level.

Challenges and Triumphs

Like many bands, Ne Obliviscaris has faced numerous challenges throughout their career. From lineup changes and logistical issues to the demands of touring and recording, the band has had to navigate a complex and often difficult landscape. Despite these challenges, they have consistently demonstrated a commitment to their artistic vision and a determination to overcome obstacles.

One of the significant challenges Ne Obliviscaris faced was the departure of bassist Brendan “Cygnus” Brown in 2017. Brown’s departure was a significant blow to the band, as he had been a key member since their formation. Despite this setback, Ne Obliviscaris continued to move forward, recruiting new bassist Martino Garattoni and maintaining their momentum.

In addition to lineup changes, Ne Obliviscaris has had to contend with the financial realities of being a touring band. Touring can be an expensive and demanding undertaking, and the band has often relied on the support of their fans to help cover costs. In 2014, they launched a successful crowdfunding campaign to support their tour of Europe and North America, raising over $86,000 from fans around the world. This outpouring of support was a testament to the dedication and passion of their fan base and underscored the strong connection between the band and their listeners.

Cultural Impact and Critical Perspectives

Ne Obliviscaris’s music has not only garnered critical acclaim but has also resonated deeply with fans around the world. Their unique sound, characterized by the fusion of contrasting elements, has been described as a reflection of the band’s diverse influences and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of metal music.

From a cultural perspective, Ne Obliviscaris can be seen as part of a broader movement within the metal genre that seeks to transcend traditional limitations and explore new sonic territories. Their willingness to incorporate elements from other musical genres, such as classical music and jazz, has helped to challenge preconceived notions about what metal music can be. This has contributed to a growing recognition of metal as a legitimate and sophisticated art form.

Music historians and cultural critics have highlighted Ne Obliviscaris’s role in the evolution of the progressive metal genre. Their innovative approach to composition and performance has inspired a new generation of musicians to explore the possibilities of blending different musical styles. In doing so, they have helped to break down barriers between genres and foster a more inclusive and diverse musical landscape.

Ne Obliviscaris in the Context of Australian Metal

Ne Obliviscaris’s rise to prominence has been a significant development within the broader context of the Australian metal scene. Australia has a rich and diverse metal culture, with a number of bands gaining international recognition in recent years. Ne Obliviscaris’s success has helped to shine a spotlight on this vibrant scene, drawing attention to the wealth of talent and creativity that exists within the country.

The band’s unique sound and innovative approach to composition have set them apart from their peers, helping to establish a distinct identity within the global metal community. Their willingness to experiment with different musical styles and incorporate diverse influences has made them a standout act, both in Australia and internationally.

Ne Obliviscaris’s success has also had a broader cultural impact, helping to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about metal music. Their sophisticated and nuanced approach to composition and performance has contributed to a growing recognition of metal as a legitimate and sophisticated art form. This has helped to foster a more inclusive and diverse musical landscape, encouraging other musicians to explore new sonic territories and push the boundaries of their own creativity.

Touring and Live Performances

Live performances have always been a cornerstone of Ne Obliviscaris’s identity as a band. Their concerts are renowned for their intensity and precision, often described as a mesmerizing blend of technical skill and raw emotion. The band’s ability to recreate the complexity and intricacy of their studio recordings in a live setting has earned them a reputation as one of the most formidable live acts in the metal genre.

Ne Obliviscaris has toured extensively throughout their career, performing in countries around the world and sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in metal. Their tours have included headline shows as well as support slots for bands such as Cradle of Filth, Enslaved, and Fleshgod Apocalypse. These tours have been instrumental in building their international fan base and solidifying their reputation as a must-see live act.

One of the standout moments in Ne Obliviscaris’s touring history was their 2014 tour of Europe and North America in support of ‘Citadel.’ This tour was notable not only for the band’s powerful performances but also for the challenges they faced along the way. Despite logistical issues and the demands of a grueling tour schedule, Ne Obliviscaris delivered consistently high-quality performances, earning rave reviews from fans and critics alike.

Following their successful appearance at this year’s Download Festival, Australian progressive metal band Ne Obliviscaris announced an extensive European and United Kingdom tour scheduled for October and November. The tour commences in Athens, Greece, on October 9th and concludes in Colmar, France, on November 7th. Notable performances include a headline gig at London’s The Garage on November 1st and an appearance at Manchester’s Damnation Festival on November 2nd. The band will be performing their acclaimed 2014 album, ‘Citadel,’ alongside their 2023 release, ‘Exul,’ in their entirety.

The band shared their excitement for the tour in a statement, highlighting their achievements and the significance of the upcoming performances. “Here in 2024, we have much to celebrate as a band. Last year saw the release of our most successful album to date, ‘Exul,’ and with it, a return to the road that saw us performing to ever-increasing crowds wherever we went. So many new people have discovered our music through ‘Exul,’ and we are so incredibly proud of what we created with this album.”

“2024 also marks the 10th anniversary of our second album, ‘Citadel,’ the record that launched us into the international scene back in 2014. ‘Citadel’ took us from our little corner of the world in Australia to stages across the world for the first time.”

Conclusion

Ne Obliviscaris’s 2024 tour, celebrating the anniversaries of ‘Citadel’ and ‘Exul,’ is a significant milestone in their illustrious career. This tour not only marks the band’s artistic achievements but also highlights their resilience and dedication to their craft. Performing both albums in their entirety, the band will bring their intricate compositions and dynamic performances to audiences across Europe and the United Kingdom, solidifying their reputation as one of the premier live acts in the progressive metal scene.

The tour’s extensive schedule, featuring headline shows and festival appearances, underscores their global appeal and the deep connection they have with their fans. As Ne Obliviscaris continues to push the boundaries of metal, their 2024 tour stands as a testament to their enduring impact and the transformative power of their music.