bio - INTERVIEWS
Country of origin:United States
Location:Tulsa, Oklahoma
Status:Active
Formed in:2017
Genre:Atmospheric Black Metal
Lyrical themes:Science, Cosmos, Space
Current label:Flowing Downward
Years active:2017-present
DISCOGRAPHY
The Large Magellanic Cloud Single 2017
Infinite Presence in a Violent Universe Full-length 2017
Prodigious EP 2017
Omnibus Compilation 2018
current line up
Myrdin Cerphas Everything (2018-present)
See also: Cerphas, Revelation None, Somber Ire
reviews
Infinite Presence in a Violent Universe - 85%
tallboymcgee, February 24th, 2019
Written based on this version: 2017, Digital, Independent (Bandcamp)
With the recent release of "Epitaph of a Dying Star" by Synodic which, basically signals the end of this shortly lived project. It is a great time to reflect on what might be one of the most hidden gems in cosmic-themed black metal. Enter "Infinite Presence in a Violent Universe" by Synodic, a atmospheric black metal record with immensely scientific space themed lyrics. Created by two sole members (at the time) Imber (vocals) and Myrdrin (Everything else) Infinite Presence in a Violent Universe was the only creation devised by both members. Imber, soon after the release of the album, left the band. This left the entire project in the hands of Myrdrin. While the later EP "Prodigious" may have not lived up to the impressiveness as its full-length brother, it does show how incredible Infinite Presence in a Violent Universe really is.
The album begins with a short 2-minute intro which apparently uses actual sound recordings of a space lander's rockets. Immediately after, the title track begins. This 7-minute long journey opens up with soaring guitars almost like the soundtrack to a black hole devouring a planet. The vocals have an nerving presence to them, which reflects the vast emptiness of space well. The next track opens up with an almost soothing but eerie space synths. Once the guitars begin their quest, the song goes into a steady, transcending and hypnotic tone. Imber's vocals once again are excellent. Imber's knowledge of astronomy shows in her lyrics. The passion poured into them is something of only someone who truly appreciates the endless void above us all. A couple other noteworthy songs are "One Billion Year Reign" and "Dweller Of The Kuiper Belt". One Billion Year Reign has some of the best riffs on the album. The lyrics about a dying star about to explode are also a welcoming element. Dweller Of The Kuiper Belt is my personal favorite song, the acoustic opening builds perfectly into the melodic main riff. The song is a worthy ode to Pluto, and is a great way to wrap up the album.
The drums on the album are not entirely otherworldly or noteworthy but considering the usage of a drum machine, it gets the job done nicely.
All in all, Synodic's "Infinite Presence in a Violent Universe" is an true hidden perfection to those who adore cosmic-themed atmospheric black metal. While the future is bleak for the project due Myrdrin not wanting to continue the project without Imber. We have to admire this beautiful creation they gifted us with.