A lack of vocals and diversity from the Chilean doom band
Nearly three years ago, Ocultum celebrated its 10th anniversary. The Chile-based doom/sludge metal band formed in 2009 and released Residue in September 2019. This is the second and most recent full-length album released by the band since Ceremonia Occulta Primivitas from 2015. The group is currently independent and consists of three members: Ricardo Robles on drums, Pablo Kataldo on bass and Sabastián Bruno on guitar and vocals.
Residue consists only of four songs. The album has its shortcomings but also has its share of positives. Ocultum kicked off their 10th anniversary right and by putting out an album with good instrumentals. These instrumentals are well-performed, but, unfortunately, this is both a blessing and a curse for the album.
Residue’s problems are mainly its vocals or lack thereof. This album has a lot of potential with its enjoyable instrumentals, but the lack of vocals makes it harder for those who prefer vocal-oriented songs to those that rely solely on instruments. Another problem with Residue is its monotony. Although the instrumentals do provide for an enjoyable listening experience, they sound very similar to each other. While this might not be a bad thing for many listeners, as they are well-crafted, the lack of diversity could easily turn some listeners away.
Out for the four-song lineup, “The Acid Road” and “Reflections On Repulsiveness” stand out the most. “The Acid Road” kicks off Residue with a strong instrumental that relies on Bruno’s exceptional guitar skills. Although the instrumentals are very similar throughout Residue, “Reflections On Repulsiveness” changes things up a bit with heavier guitars and more emphasis on Robles’ drumming talents.
“Residue,” the title track, is an example of what makes this album fall flat. Its instrumentals are good, notably in its consistent use of the guitar, but sounds very similar to what was just played previously in “The Acid Road” and does not add anything new to the album. “Ascending with the Fumes of the Dead” also uses its guitars in a very similar way to “The Acid Road” and “Residue” for nearly 16 minutes without much use of vocals.
All in all, it would be harsh to bash a group’s art for their own musical ideas. The instrumentals are strong, but newer and older metal fans will likely prefer to listen to a longer album that has more vocals and more diversity with its instrumentals. While Residue may not be an exceptionally strong release, there is still plenty to build on. The instrumentals are strong, and although the vocals are limited, they are solid when they do occur, and they fit well within the doom genre. And for listeners who did enjoy Residue, Ocultum released a live album in late 2021—Descending Live 2021.
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