OFFICIUM TRISTE (re-issue) – Reason
- by Matt Coe
- Posted on 16-08-2015
The third studio album from Dutch doom/death metal band Officium Triste "Reason" came out in 2004 on Displeased Records. 11 years later, Vic Records feels the need to reissue this important release, featuring additional liner notes from vocalist Pim Blankenstein. Early My Dying Bride, Anathema, and The Gathering factor into these 5 songs – somber, beautiful, enchanting, and exquisite material.
The combination of slow guitar chords and elongated keyboard strains against Pim’s natural growls makes "Silent Witness" and the alluring, almost 11 minute "Sun Doesn’t Shine Anymore" mandatory listening. Rainfall punctuates tranquil passages, various forms of piano and keyboards convey a soundtrack for the ages – Officium Triste with "Reason" serve up 42 minutes of sadness that proves doom/death’s timelessness.
Amazing. If pictures are worth a thousand words, the 5 songs on this record will gain easily as much in discussion and debate amongst the metal community.