Obscure Anachronism - Metanoia [World Terror Committee - 2011]Obscure Anachronism are an Austrian black metal band, and "Metanoia" is their second full length. As they mention in the booklet, "Metanoia" is inspired by Greek philosophic concepts, mainly focusing of letting material things behind and annihilating the perception of oneself. It sounds like stuff legendary harsh noise wall artist Vomir would be into, and it's certainly an interesting thematic - which can't be said for the vast majority of metal albums out there. First track "Ahamkara Defeated" starts with primitive drumming and rumbling, chanting Indian-sounding vocals. I guess you can't go wrong with that! After a minute of excellent introduction, the song switches to dissonant yet traditional black metal. Vocals are intelligible for once, and very well implemented in the mass of noise. Lyrics are seemingly inspired by the Aghori, Indian ascetics that feast on corpses and live in complete filth. Second track "Gaze Beyond" indulges in more simple and jarring guitar structures, paired by aggressive and un-harmonious vocals and a powerful rhythmic section. The rest of the album follows the same trail, with the occasional and very welcome resurgence of tribal drumming, creepy synth and chanting vocals. The use of vocals, the quality of sound and the bizarre riffs reminded me of experimental black metal acts like Deathspell Omega, but Obscure Anachronism somehow manage to feel more "traditional". The will to experiment, explore and go beyond the black metal matter is definitely there, but the Austrians wear their roots on their skin. I must say that I liked this feeling of old and new. "Metanoia" managed to keep my attention up and made me long for more. In conclusion: keep an eye on this band!    Nicola Vinciguerra
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