Ofnus – Valediction – CD Review

19th February 2025 0 By Oli Gonzalez

In the darkest depths of southern Wales, a band by the name of Ofnus dwells. A quintet that I had the pleasure of witnessing in the flesh only a few days ago (at the time of writing) as they supported fellow British atmospheric black metal act Saor on a mini-tour of the UK Isles. Also, a band they consider to be a key influence. As such, it seems fitting that I’m now getting the opportunity, nae privilege, to get my hands on Ofnus’ latest record “Valediction”.

I was thoroughly impressed by the much slower, expansive post-metal spin on the genre, and can see why they’re slowly forging quite the reputation for themselves in the UK black metal scene and further. Additionally, I was able to catch a sneak preview of some of the tracks that would appear on this record. Now I’m able to conduct a much deeper dive into the band from the comfort of my own home and see what they’re really about. So, let’s get right into it.

From the outset, you can sense that Ofnus are offering something unique to the world of black metal. The band cites Emperor as one of their key influences, and it’s readily apparent given the epic fantasy-like undertones. Though Ofnus’ attack is different in that it’s more of a slow bludgeoning assault on the senses, diverting away from the usual blast beat-inspired rhythmic approach that’s all too common within the genre. Whereas bassists in other bands are relegated to following the guitars blindly in a style that’s void of passion or intrigue, bassist Richard is given full license to express himself here, with the result being some hypnotic loops and passages in the low end providing Ofnus with a much more interesting rhythmic quality.

Vocally, whilst William is consistently fierce in his more traditional KVLT style shrieks, he can switch this up to a more guttural assault, whilst we also see the emergence of cleaner more ethereal vocals from the rest of the band, in particular during the opening track ‘The Shattering’.

If you’re not careful, you can find yourself becoming fully immersed in the rich atmospheric soundscapes, qualities that are a crucial cog in the band’s overall sound. They collectively act as a wonderful melodic centerpiece sitting elegantly above the aforementioned percussive foundations set by Richard and drummer Ethan. Speaking of melodic, there are countless examples across the record where the guitarists are given license to unleash hell and provide a sonic onslaught to the senses with the most sadistic and blistering guitar leads!

Seriously, having seen the band live also, it’s clear that both James and Alyn know how to get the best tones out of their instruments both in a live setting and here in the studio. I write this now as one of those glorious lead riffs is blasting down my headphones; in case at around the 4:30 mark on ‘Reflections Of Delusion’. This will have tone and guitar enthusiasts purring in admiration, I guarantee.

Now, given the length of the songs and album as a whole, I’d normally be concerned that my attention would start to wane. However, Ofnus still manages to offer just enough variation in the compositional approach in the latter stages of the album to ensure you’re still engaged whilst staying consistent with the band’s style. For instance, ‘Zenith Dolour’ seems to explore more shoegaze style guitar riffs thus adding a more subtle psychedelic element, whilst the slower more ambient sections in the album’s title track ‘Valediction’ provide some much-needed respite and allow the album to breathe. Though ‘Alazia’ changes things up completely.

Remember how I said that Ofnus doesn’t utilize blast beats in their sound (or at least implied that)? I lied. ‘Alazia’ starts off with the most sickening and thunderous blast-beat-driven deluge! This one is truly scorching hot and must be handled with care! Saving their best for last clearly as you’ll find yourself going back to the beginning of this record to relive this. As I did!

So, that’s Ofnus ‘Valediction’. What’s stopping this from being a 10/10? One word; production. Whilst I can understand why they may have gone for a more retrograde production value – to provide a more raw and gritty overall texture – I do feel as though it’s just a little too raw in parts. I feel as though the overall presentation could be sharper and brighter in parts, though this may well compromise the atmospheric qualities equally.

In either case, make no mistake about it. Ofnus has provided a serious statement of intent with ‘Valediction’ that demonstrates a fresh spin on the entire black metal genre. One that will command respect and force others to take a serious look at the band, and offer a resounding statement as to how deep the quality of the UK’s black metal scene really is. This may not be the breakthrough album yet for the band, but it’s damn close!

Score 9/10