Italian trio Ufomammut have never been ones to play by the rules. After all, their last album, 2010’s 'Eve', was essentially one forty-five minute symphony devoted to the first woman on earth. Two years on and things haven’t really changed that much. 'Opus Primum' is the first part of two 'Oro' records to be released in 2012 by the band and, much like 'Eve' this is essentially one long piece divided into separate tracks. In a way this is the strongest facet of the record. The memorable moments are the little motifs that crop up throughout the album’s duration, the ones that signify that 'Opus Primum' is one complete work of music.
Although Ufomammut’s music is founded upon the gloomy world of sludgey metal, they have as much in common with the psychedelic rock of Pink Floyd and 13th Floor Elevators as they do Down and Kylesa. Swirling walls of overdriven guitars dominate proceedings. 'Opus Primum' features a guitar sound that almost screams with enough feedback to make it seem that Ufomammut are in the room with the listener.
The mystical tension of opener 'Empireum' continues throughout the four proceeding tracks. Snatches of manipulated vocals, punishing tribal drums and bleeping synths weave their way in and out of the sonic landscape Ufommamut have created, but nothing ever overcomes the swathes vicious, uncompromising guitar.
A dense record, with few genuine hooks to speak of, 'Oro: Opus Primum' is an impressively crafted album. Its overbearing nature won’t be for everyone but for fans of both metal music and progressive music it is more than worth a good listen. It should seem all the better when combined with its forthcoming sequel later this year.
'Oro: Opus Primum' is out on Monday via Neurot Recordings. Ufomammut play The Garage in London on 24th April.
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