Obsidian Tide hail from Israel and following the progressive metal route are making headway into both the European and Stateside American music scenes.
Formed in Tel-Aviv in 2012 by 2012 by guitarist Oz Avneya, he would soon be joined by bass player Shachar Bieber (the pair sharing vocals with Avneya singing the clean ones and Bieber the harsh), alongside Erez Nadler on drums and programming.
Rhythm guitarist Roman Spektor was with them during their first year and the idea of a keyboard player mooted, but ultimately the band moved forward as a trio, collectively developing ideas Avneya had instigated for the EP that became their first release, Debris, in early 2015.
Recorded and mixed by Erez Nadler, and mastered by Jamie King (Between The Buried And Me, Scale The Summit), the record was produced by Obsidian Tide themselves.
Last year they went big, writing and recording the 55 minute concept album that is Pillars of Creation, with King again on board and the band recording its seven songs in multiple locations. It was also noted for featuring several guest musicians, including Mike LePond (Symphony X, Silent Assassins).
The album tells the tale of a man who goes on a journey of enlightenment. Along the way, he himself is witness to riveting stories and learns horrible truths. Finally, he reaches a decision based on all he has experienced, and – in following his conscience – his choice changes everything.
An album of contrasts, musically Pillars of Creation dances between the hauntingly atmospheric and more brutally charged metal sections. An ambitious endeavour it has sold well, not only in Israel but abroad and later in the year the band will be performing live at ProgPower Europe 2020, in the Netherlands.
Check out Obsidian Tide’s music here via the videos shown at RAMzine and also on Bandcamp.
