While the bulk of the releases covered by Ave Noctum fall into the extreme category in one way or another, we are also partial to an occasional more atmospheric release. While not extreme in terms of brutality, let’s be clear that these releases are not mainstream and nestle comfortably in the underground. Osi and the Jupiter undoubtedly fall into this latter category and having previously reviewed and enjoyed their first EP and debut album, I was looking forward to hearing their latest release ‘Appalachia’.
On this three track EP, the Osi and the Jupiter sound has evolved from the previous releases. It is now a little more personal, more evocative and pushes outside the previous neofolk boundaries into ambient, yearning soundscapes
The opening track ‘They Ride Through the Skies on Horse Drawn Chariots’ is perhaps the strongest of the three tracks on the EP and whenever I listen to it, I find myself inextricably carried off to far-away places. A serene intro with a soothing cello melody over a synth drone leads gently into the track which remains peaceful but also captures a dramatic feel as the intensity ebbs and flows.
There is a change in atmosphere as ‘Appalachia’ opens with a plucked acoustic guitar, that has a gentrified country feel to it, leading to emotive vocals ably supported by well-placed cello pieces. The vocals are understated but are all the more powerful for it, developing a yearning quality to them on this contemplative dedication to their homeland in Eastern Ohio.
The EP is brought to a close in epic style with ‘The Binding Will of Mountains’ clocking in at almost twelve and half minutes. This opus revisits some of the sounds more prominent on the first two releases, pulling them together nicely and sitting comfortably with the newer evolved sound. The track is still based around delicate cello melodies and gentle, heartfelt vocals as the track winds its path gently through the tranquil soundscape it creates.
This is Osi and the Jupiter’s strongest release to date, and I have revisited it numerous times already. I look forward to hearing where their future journey takes them and if you feel you need a change from blastbeats and growls, I recommend this to you.
(8/10 Andy Pountney)
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