Thousand Vision Mist from Maryland have been around for a while now. I think the first time I saw them live was at Maryland Doom Fest in 2015 and they blew me away, there and then, no questions asked. They were especially productive during 2015 and 2016 releasing a self-titled demo, their excellent full-length debut 'Journey To Ascension And The Loss Of Tomorrow' as well as two singles. Then everything went silent for quite some time as personal tragedies struck within the band. Recuperating and trying to heal took the band all the way to 2023 as they are back with their sophomore full-length, 'Depths of Oblivion'. And what is there to say? Absolutely fucking brilliant, you hear!
There are 8 songs on offer here and what a journey Thousand Vision Mist takes us on. Not only do they unleash their own wonderful sound, this time they have brought several distinct influences to the table and blended it all comes out so great. 'Depths Of Oblivion' opens up with 'Sands Of Time' and they go full tilt immediately mixing grunge, Maryland doom and some funky groovy sounds to great aplomb. It knocks you of your feet setting the tone for the whole album. 'Citadel Of Green' follows and man, it's brilliant! Maryland doom at its very best and the way it sounds like is the perfect evolution; think The Obsessed and Unorthodox of yore with a modern sound. The ending brings wonderful hints of The Allman Brothers. Pummeling and shock full of riffs, 'Dream Eternal' is crushing. Danny's voice reminds me of Layne Staley and Andrew Wood and works perfectly with the music. 'Love, The Destroyer' is laidback, serene and reflective as Thousand Vision Mist bring forth visions of Seattle in the 90's until halfway through. Then we're catapulted out on a spacetrip and a half, the likes you've never experienced before.
'We Flew Too High' retains the pace as the wonderful sounds of Maryland emanates from the speakers. The guys leave no stone unturned in this timeless composition. Mellow, reflective and pondering 'Thunderbird Blue' comes across as if Alice In Chains and The Allman Brothers had a lovechild. Beautiful! Even more so in the latter part when the song explodes. 'Battle For Yesterday' is laidback, again with strong hints of Alice In Chains. Towards the end exotic sounds of South Asia appears and heightens the song even more. Album closer 'Reversal Of Misfortune' is heavy, you hear? Heavy! The Obsessed meets Iron Man meets Thousand Vision Mist, in other words, Maryland doom at its very damned best. You'll have to look hard for a better composition to end such an amazing recording.
Having followed and liked Thousand Vision Mist for a longtime, 'Depths Of Oblivion' comes as a breath of fresh air. I mean, I knew they were a really good band already but this creation is something completely different. Not that they've changed their sound much but what they have done is add bits and pieces which enhances their music beyond words. The musicianship is bar to none with Danny Kenyon, guitar & vocals, Tony Comulada, bass guitar and Chris Sebastian, drums, playing so free-flowing and unrestrained. And that pushes the music up to a whole different level. Then add the wonderful lyrics the band is out in the stratosphere. All three members have gone through some really bad stuff the last few years which is reflected strongly in the lyrics. And with Danny singing with his emotions on his sleeves, you truly feel everything they've been through. But with the music being so upbeat and positive, this blend is the perfect catharsis. Every time I listen to 'Depths Of Oblivion' I come out of it a better person and you can't ask for more.
I don't know how they do it but the way Thousand Vision Mist pull in strong, and varied, influences and blend them so perfectly, is beyond me. Most times bands bring in too many influences the music is all over the board. That's not the case with this band. Everything they do flow so easily and mix even better...and the end result? 'Depths Of Oblivion', dear wave riders! This album is a must in any collection out there regardless what your preferences are. Don't miss out people, don't miss out!
- Swedebeast
