Review Summary: Multi-Dimensional Celestial Atmospheric Death Metal
Since their formation in 2000, Mithras has progressed in their goal of pushing the genre of death metal by adding complex atmospheric space like elements to its foundation. With 4 full lengths, "On Strange Loops" is the pinnacle of their achievements; surpassing the mighty predecessor "Behind the Shadows...".
The atmospheric elements of OSL are found right from the track opener which serves as a lengthy filler which I feel is the albums only downfall (not to mention the albums challenging length) because the listener, if taken at face value, might think that's all this album has to offer. But when you jump into the second track "When the Stars Align" it all begins to make sense as the album comes to full fruition with blast beats, heavy riffs, and delay reverb laden vocals.
The pacing of OSL is one the albums highlights. While many artists who create dm seem to play off dense atmospheres that have little variance, Mithras know just how to space out, no pun, their riff onslaughts with, dare I say, beautiful interludes as found on the track Odyssey's End before building up to a mid paced death metal crescendo.
OSL sets the stage for a fine display of musical talent pushing the boundaries of what death metal can achieve in the atmospheric department.
