The release rate by India’s Transcending Obscurity is staggering to say the least and whilst you would expect the odd duff release here and there, there is a consistency that few extreme metal labels can compare to, and coupled to that they always release their albums with such amazing physical products and this debut full length is no different.

Debut EP ‘Radiant Gloom’ was certainly a tasty set of songs for the discerning modern black metal fan, but this full length is on a new level of craftmanship, its blend of scintillating black metal is tempered by atmospheric black metal passages producing a unique album that straddles both genres with absolute ease. However, you would never think that addition is going to materialise when ‘Starless Sky’ detonates from your speakers. With an epic aura the song sweeps in with huge dramatic tension and explosive intent as the piercing hook adds another level of texture.

‘Comet’ follows and here we get a slower start as isolated guitar work blends to the eerie dread filled atmosphere offering excellent contrast to the blurring opener. Again, slower yet inherently intense is ‘Disgust’ as the song brandishes a deathly feel with subtle blast beats escalating the fury of the song. However, it is how this band applies such awesome dynamics that really catch your ear and attention, as that atmospheric black metal feathering really finds its niche on this song, reminding me of French band ‘Regarde Les Hommme Tomber and to some extent Austrian band Anomalie. The band has been compared to Dissection and whilst the guitar work suggest that Vorga stretch outside that confine into something that little bit different.

‘Last Transmission’ is immense, its excellent opening uses that atmospheric black metal nuance to greatly enhance the emotive riffing as the vocal style layers on the tension. The tempo shifts are formidable too, ensuring momentum but, importantly, enabling the song to build back with escalating drama producing devastating results. The riff and cymbal start to ‘Fool’s Paradise’ also caught my ear, building up nicely towards a cool melodic black metal style.

‘Taken’ is the longest tune but the expected slower beginning fails to materialise, instead the song erupts but wears its atmospheric shroud brilliantly as the intensity creates a prolonged instrumental phase I particularly liked. Closing is the exceptional ‘Death Manifesting’, offering a slightly catchier style you’ll definitely latch onto but without loss of power. Again, the atmospheric posturing is evident, subtly placed as the song leaves an indelible mark in your head.

2022 is beginning with some excellent black metal for me, as those with a penchant for melodic black metal tempered by emotive atmospherics should check this out. Quality stuff from Vorga of that there is no doubt.

(8.5/10 Martin Harris)

https://www.facebook.com/VorgaBand

https://vorgaband.bandcamp.com/album/striving-toward-oblivion-black-metal