| With their debut full-length Omen, Finnish black metal entity Witchflame emerges from the shadows, offering a striking take on the melodic side of the genre. Released on December 12, 2023, through Werewolf Records, this album is a testament to the band's vision and skill, delivering an immersive, 90s-inspired sound that honors tradition while maintaining a crisp, modern production. Unlike the rawer, more chaotic stylings often associated with Finnish black metal's elite-Satanic Warmaster, Sargeist, or Horna-Witchflame carves a path closer to the haunting grandeur of ...And Oceans, Alghazanth, and Catamenia. Majestic yet menacing, Omen weaves intricate, multi-layered melodies with an icy, unrelenting vocal delivery, creating an atmosphere that is as cold as it is captivating. Clocking in at a compact but effective 32 minutes, Omen wastes no time in making an impression. Each track carries a sense of urgency, yet there's an undeniable elegance to the compositions. The band's musicianship suggests experience, even if their identities remain shrouded in anonymity. Their ability to balance soaring melodies with sharp aggression speaks to a deep understanding of the genre's essence. While Omen may not seek to reinvent black metal, it thrives on its execution. The passion, precision, and dedication poured into each track make it a worthy addition to any enthusiast's collection. Witchflame's arrival signals a band with both conviction and potential, and if this debut is any indication, their journey has only just begun.
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