The DevilsHorns

Cult of Oblivion is the latest EP from Massachusetts natives, Oxblood Forge and it is steeped magnificently in old-school classical Heavy Metal riffage, smattered with classic 70’s style doom throughout. Released almost exactly 2 years since their debut E.P., it is surprising that we are only hit with a meagre 4 tracks, although it may be because it is self-released and has no major (nor minor) label support.

The first thing that strikes you about the EP is the vocals. Vocalist, Kenneth MacKay, has a very distinct style for the genre. Traditional Heavy Metal is associated with vocals by distinct singers such as Saxon’s Biff Byford, Ronnie James Dio or perhaps Iron Maiden’s own Bruce Dickinson. MacKay is a different beast. His, almost hardcore, style of delivery is spiky, aggressive and almost sits at odds with the 4 tracks on offer.

the rest of the band get a bit of notice, be it the persistent drumming in the eponymous opening track, or the catchy riffs and guitar in ‘Upon the Alter’.

To be perfectly honest, it isn’t fair to single our various aspects of the EP, as it is the whole that holds it together. Oxblood Forge are a band. That much is obvious. The drums and bass control the tracks, allowing the exploration of the guitars. This in turn allows for the expressive vocals that basically gives you an EP that is worth a few pennies for purchase on bandcamp.

Oxblood Forge are not the next big metal band – there genre of choice is the most competitive around – but Cult of Oblivion is a joyous slab of doom tinged classic heavy metal that may just soothe your needs.

Bandcamp:  https://oxbloodforge.bandcamp.com/album/cult-of-oblivion

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/6yUX5PZfepViBVXFVoa1rW?si=4PmEj7hRTQedwjtXhsrxqA&nd=1

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/oxbloodforge