Obscura

After the moderate success of their 2009 sophomore effort, Cosmogenesis, German tech-metal brigade Obscura work with Relapse to re-release their independent 2006 cult classic, Retribution. Treated to a complete overhaul in fresh packaging, re-mastered sound and three extra tracks, it's a far cry from the barren offering they once issued with their funds. Yes, it seems strange that an act so fresh and unknown would be graced thusly with a reissue but such grandiose treatment is deserved. Retribution is a perfect union of jaw-dropping technicality and creativity. It easily prevails as a blackened death metal classic thanks to embittered vocals and searing guitars, optimized by occasional operatic moments that offset and add interesting diversions from the scene's archetypal formula. Brutal, daring and ardent, Retribution is a strong reminder of Obscura's potential to overtake their respective genus.