Started in 2020, OMNIVIDE is a blend of Progressive, Death and Symphonic Metal. Lyrically, the songs on the album are broadly about us trying to understand death, both as a tragedy and a natural part of life, the pain it brings, and the resilience that can be born from it. This can mean the physical death of an individual, our planet, the universe, or a person’s internal fire and lust for life. We use storytelling in some songs as a vehicle for this, and since we love fantasy media, the content of these stories has fantasy elements, while also weaving in deeper concepts of death, hardship, regret, and growth. Other songs revolve around historical figures, while others are mostly metaphorical, but all are linked together by this exploration of all aspects of death.

“Clarity” is first. Smooth acoustic guitar tones soon lead to a barrage of instruments, a tight core of music, and harsh vocals. The staccato guitar attack is bested only by the progressive leanings of the music along with backing symphonics. “Opulence” comes out of the gate with a thick, dark sound and some great lead guitar work. The band’s ability to shift from one passage to another is fantastic, and they do it seamlessly. The instrumental sections really showcase their musicianship as well. “Desolate” is another tight offering, and the amount of stops and starts on a dime while not missing one beat is amazing. Clean vocals are added in here, giving some temperance to the wicked aggression.  “A Tale of Fire” is as grandiose as the title sounds, and polyrhythms rise and fall like layers on a wedding cake. Listen to the drumming here…it is tastefully done in addition to being very dexterous, and the keyboards add another delicious layer to your palate.

“Cosmic Convergence” has equal helpings of symphonic awe and a heavy storm of instrumental crossfire. The two wrestle with one another throughout the song, without a clear victor, and the lead guitar work here is incredible as well. “Holy Killer” has some playful tones to go along with the more serious instrumental work, and it seems that the band never runs out of ideas or material to expand on. “Death Be Not Proud” has some devastatingly heavy sections as well as some lighter, more ethereal, and melodic ones, and the song is presented with confidence, and power. “Stoned Dragon” closes the album. Not only is it the longest song on the album, but it is also very exploratory. The band is able to shift into adjacent directions when they want to, but without compromising their main sound. With a song that is this hermetically sealed, that is something that is quite difficult.

The compositions on the album are as tenacious and imposing as the angles in the band’s logo. Each song packs a list of surprises that are like colorful candy being fed to you just when you are beginning to get hungry. Obviously talented, the quartet never lets their talent outshine their songwriting, although the flashes they do show will leave you speechless. How is this band not signed to a major record label?