Offermose is atmospheric dungeon run. Part atmospheric black metal, part dungeon synth, part outrun. If Lorn were to collaborate with the instrumental parts of Wolves in the Throne Room (or maybe depressive black metal band NONE) you would get somewhere close to Offermose’s new album Stilhedens Tårn. There are moments where I forget where I am, deep in the trance of filtered drones and kinetic, plucky outrun style leads. I’m in the forest, in the rain, in the coming winter. It’s cold and dark. Cinematic. But always subtle.
I’ve had “Stilhedens Tårn” on repeat since the pre-order. It’s perfect for writing in the evenings.The soft, moody, filtered pads are so expertly tuned to the deep sadness one can only experience through the expression of someone else. Under this, almost too quietly, a screaming, growling, (sometimes) crying voice reverberates, adding to the droning waves.
Drums are only used when they need to be. Most of the album is pure cohesive atmosphere. But on tracks like “Sjælens Ruin,” we’re treated to a very subdued outrun dance beat. It’s slow and driving, not over-stated. This is the middle point of the album and the only track with a direct beat, which I think is an interesting but necessary choice - it breaks the tension without straying from all the darkness that’s been built up to this point.
Kim Larsen from Of The Wand and the Moon, who was featured prominently in the first track of Offermose’s debut album, returns on the track “Seklernes Nat” to provide additional synth work. Also featured on synths for the track “Langs Skæbnens Kyst” is fellow Den Sorte Død collaborator Angst. I have to admit, I didn’t find much of a characteristic difference for either of these tracks, but I believe this has more to do with the album’s cohesive tone and mood than a lack of influence.
This album is also the official soundtrack for the Tower of Silence: the End of Prophecy board game, which is included with the purchase of the album (print & play). Designed by Jacob Schmidt-Madsen and Anders Nydam, Tower of Silence appears to be the most Dungeon Synth game ever created: players arise as shipwrecked souls, washed ashore in hopelessness. To find peace, they must climb the mountain and reach the tower. I haven’t had the opportunity to play the board game yet, but it looks cool as hell.
Offermose’s new album “Stilhedens Tårn” is out now on Third Coming Records.