Ouija - black metal from Spain

Ouija

Fathomless Hysteros

December 26th, 2022

Negra Nit Distro

The third album Fathomless Hysteros by Ouija (Spain; 1994 [as Levia]), 1995-1997, 2009-present) embodies the act’s tradition of headbanging black metal. Their 1997 debut full-length album Riding into the Funeral Paths established a foundation of raging, classic-style black metal. Times change and technology changes, and the music nowadays reflects the knowledge and experience acquired over the years. For example, that first album was prototypical, from the guitar work to the shrieking to the high-speed drumming, as close to ideal in this particular genre in those days. What is different nowadays? The vocals have become a lower, more brutal scowl (within a black metal context) and the guitar sound is thicker, fuller. Whereas the early material sounds more necro, melodic and not as heavy as today, the current sound is a more muscular speeding trucking sound, with some important midtempo contrasts; less atmosphere, more upfront energy. Regardless of the differences in production, Ouija represents with the same intentions seeking to start an immediate reaction in the audience. Is it possible to sit there and hear Ouija’s music and remain motionless? They are betting that the fans of the genre will not be able to avoid banging their heads in approval. Interestingly, on this recording, of the seven songs (40 minutes total), one song is from the 2013 sophomore album Ave Voluptatis Carnis and one from 1997’s Riding into the Funeral Paths. Decades later, headbanging black metal is still the number one priority.

FATHOMLESS HYSTEROS by OUIJA

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