OCULI MELANCHOLIARUM is a Depressive Black/Post Metal band based out of Mexico. This is composer Nox Victoria's third full-length album, and it has seven songs. "Achroia" is first, and it paints an outerworldly landscape of rage and pain. The vocals vary between gentle, melodic tones and tortured screams that seem to come out of nowhere. For me, it's like someone who can go through most of their life keeping it together, but every now and again, the rage bubbles up and needs an outlet. Sometimes, you need a reminder that the good times outweigh the bad, and that's what I get from the song. "Catopsilia" is another song that combines gentle, ambient tones that almost sound magical to me with pure unadulterated hate in the harsh vocals. The guitars keep a steady level of sonority throughout the song, and there are many elements of beauty to behold within the darkness.

"Zerynthia" capitalizes more on emotion and feeling then raw aggression, and it still sounds as somber and depressing as rain on a cold November day. There is a long, introspective passage with delicate spoken words, and they hold you hostage as a listener. "Actias luna" is like a beautiful and vibrantly colored flower that only you have the privilege of watching it bloom. Even when the harsh vocal screams are unleashed, it still feels wonderful to watch. This is the classic yin and yang of the genre. For each movement, there must be a matching counterpoint. "Chrysiridia" begins with a full palate of melody, and also harsh vocals scream providing a counterbalance. Delicate piano notes also join in, butting hard against the tortured screams.

"Hyalophora" begins like a warm dream you are still enveloped deeply in. It has gentle, and melodic tones, and it's somewhere comforting that you just want to stay. Even when it takes a turn towards firmer tones, the melody lingers like a sweetness on your tongue. "Saturnia" is the final song, and the longest. Again, it mirrors that warm haze you feel as you wake from a pleasant dream, and the images of splendor are burned into your memory. The sound builds slowly from each additional layer of instruments that are added, and each one opens another horizon that you can see over the mountains. The melodies are simple, but so very effective at getting their point across.

The album has a constant push and pull that is like a ride on an old wooden rollercoaster. You are jarred back and forth at every turn, yet the experience is enjoyable and a total adrenaline rush. She has claws and fans, which can cut deep, but she also radiates warmth, simplicity, and acceptance. When you are in her presence, you can't help but feel content.