Opera IX
Maleventum

Biella 1988. 

A certain guitarist known by the name of Ossian (leader and mind of the band), founded Opera IX.  However, this time we are not talking about Scandinavian or foreign black metal, but rather Italian black metal. 

The musical style of these Piedmontese is very original, they are unique in their kind, and I really like this aspect. It's a pity that they are more appreciated in Europe than in Italy. Besides that, Opera IX has always been faithful to their style, they have never commercialized themselves, and have always gone straight on their path, emphasizing their passion for music. The lyrics instead are the result of a strong interest in the occult, Celtism, and medieval legends. The frontman, or rather the frontwoman of this group was the singer Cadaveria, who left the band after "The Black Opera-Symphoniae Mysteriorum in Laudem Tenebrarum", a dark, disturbing, evocative album, undoubtedly the best record by Opera IX. She, together with drummer Flegias (also a member of Necrodeath), founded Cadaveria in 2001. In the last two albums without Cadaveria, the pagan ideology (which has always been present in Opera IX's records) takes over the musical lyrics.

"Maleventum".

After Cadaveria's departure, two new members joined Opera IX.  A new singer known as Madras, and a new drummer, Taranis. With this new lineup, the group released "Maleventum". This album has a sound quite different from Opera IX’s previous works. In fact, this "Maleventum" is a concept album about witchcraft as a form of religion, practiced by the ancient pre-Christian populations. A theme very dear to this band, which they explored further with the subsequent "Anphisbena".

The title track of the album is excellent, immediately immersing us in the album's atmosphere, and Madras's screaming is also excellent, fierce, and very expressive. Among the tracks I prefer is "In The Dark I Found The Reflection Of The Hidden Mirrors", a very evocative piece that begins with the backdrop of a storm. Following is "Muscaria", another very interesting piece, with dark and medieval tones, and the splendid "Forgotten Gods", introduced by the sound of bagpipes. Finally, the album closes with the beautiful "In The Serpent's Eye", an explosive, engaging track with great adrenaline.

Undoubtedly an interesting album, out of the ordinary, which may not satisfy all the fans of this group, especially those who adored Opera IX with Cadaveria, but it is certainly an album to listen to, especially for those who love the genre.