FEAR

This is their third full-fledged album, released via Svart Records. The ONSÉGEN ENSEMBLE is a band hailing from Finland that has experienced rather lively line up changes during the past. And in most cases it's impossible to determine for what instruments the involved musicians are in charge in particular. Right here again. So far. On 'Fear' the current crew is comprised of nine musicians, that is known for sure. Where bassist Esa Juujärvi seems to be the band's sole constant, right from the start up to now. Music-wise the seven songs are offering an impressing mixed bag. The basics are coming from heavy rock meadows definitely. Overly instrumental, though if vocals, then constantly variating, either as a female/male duet, or close to growls, or arranged like an epic choir respectively Gregorian chant aso.

The album's overall atmosphere is matchless. Rather dark mooded, not depressive anyhow, more in a sensitive melancholic manner. Furthermore psychedelic guitars, a jazzy trumpet, lush orchestral keyboard strings, folksy flute, native ritualistic percussion. Plus many many more elements which altogether are designed into a really prosperous shape. Deeply influenced by shamanistic rituals, hence a Heilung resemblance is coming up here and there somehow. Sparrow's Song and Lament Of Man on the contrary are serving some Italo Western flair in the vein of Ennio Morricone, I would say. The title track makes my day due to the punchy drive and outstanding guitar presence. Spot-on! During roundabout 50 minutes playing time there's a lot to discover on 'Fear'.