Singapore is not known as a hotbed of death metal but with their first full length release the band Oshiego looks to change that fact. After showing the promise of a new band with their EP Unending Carnage the next test is if they can maintain the same quality for a full length disc. Oshiego manages to pump new life into the thrash/death metal genre thanks in no small part to the duel guitars of Kadir Alsagoff and Morgan Johann Lee. This pair created and shaped the sound of the band and what sets them apart from the crowd of bands trying to break through in this genre. Sadly, Morgan has left the band and I hope that they will be able to find an adequate replacement for his awesome lead guitar work.
The offset of Kadir Alsagoff''s vocal growls and grunts and the terrific guitar work throughout the album makes this one a winner. You might think of them as oil and vinegar but instead they combine the melodic with the death metal vocals in a way that compliments both. When you toss in a bit of old school heavy metal this disc becomes a real treat. Just listen to the song "In Death, My Dominion" with its dynamite guitar riffs against Alsagoff's growling and you will get a good idea of the tantalizing mixture that these guys have developed.
I would have to say that my favorite song on the disc is "The Abyss". This is the one that keeps rattling around in the head after the album is put away on the shelf. Their cover of "Into The Grave" by Sweden's Grave is another high point. There are no low points though as the just keep snarling and pounding you from start to finish.
This band brings it hard and doesn't let up at all. Watch out for them, they will be making some waves if this album is any indication.
Track listing:
1. Blood Omen
2. In Death, My Dominion
3. Vae Victus
4. The Absolute
5. The Abyss
6. Decapitating The Sarafan
7. The Scion Of Balance
8. Into The Grave
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