Birthed in 2012, Miseria Visage is a solo symphonic black metal project based in Leeds. ‘Vanish into Dark’ is an impressive feat for one person when taking into consideration the grandiose of the avant-garde sound of the album teamed with its distinct neo classical influences.
The pianos and synths featured on this record are heavily reminiscent of some of the latest works of Arcturus. When each track is dissected, the true brilliance of Theta’s creativity comes to life – the riffs are imaginative, synths well chosen, piano played beautifully and the vocals are incredibly distinct. Credit must also be given for the production quality – it is crystal clear.
However, when all of these elements are married together it makes for something that is altogether uninspired. Whilst the musical compositions may fit together like jigsaw pieces, it is certainly not untouched territory and the striking resemblance to Dimmu Borgir’s music is unmistakable – so much so that if you were to play this EP alongside ‘Puritanical Euphoric Misanthropia’ you’d be hard pressed to pick out any differences.
The talent of Theta cannot be faulted, however, symphonic black metal is such a tired and beaten down genre it is difficult to breathe any life into it at all, much more so when you are relying on the imagination of just one person. Miseria Visage would do well to change its creative direction for a full length or perhaps enlist the help of other musicians to bring its sound up to date.
(5/10 Angela Davey)
Leave a Reply