Album Review: The Ossuary – Southern Funeral (Supreme Chaos Records)

The Ossuary presents a blend of Sabbath-like riffs, dark Pentagram atmosphere and melodic Thin Lizzy / Wishbone Ash melodies and good old Iron Maiden guitar leads. The band was founded not long ago in October 2014 in Southern Italy, but their sound feels like a trip back in time. Lovers of heavy rock and doom feel at home in the world of The Ossuary as they release their second album is called ‘Southern Funeral’ out on January 25th 2019 via Supreme Chaos Records.

Don’t let the ‘back in time’ point put you off, for all it’s old-school rock vibes Southern Funeral is a wickedly energetic modern doom record. A bouncy, groovy and fun 8-track album with some absolutely killer riffs such as found on the excellent Maze of No Return. An early contender for the best track on the album.

The Sabbath/Thin Lizzy links aren’t as obvious as you might think but the comparisons are there especially when you hear tracks like Belphegor. The biggest difference being the gruff and scratchy style of vocals that really work alongside some body-shaking groove.

Adding some real mood and atmosphere to things, the title track lays down some dirty doom riffs to great effect. The slower tempo really takes hold and when it hits hard the vocals absolutely soar. A brilliant track and one that shows The Ossuary have plenty more then just catchy rock tracks in their arsenal.

However, it’s those deep rock riffs and catchy bass hooks that really make The Ossuary’s Southern Funeral such a great listen. Eternal Pyre and Sleep Demon, prime examples of the layered quality the band hold.

The Ossuary – Southern Funeral Full Track Listing:

1. Walk Into Sepulchral Haze
2. Maze Of No Return
3. Belphegor
4. Southern Funeral
5. Eternal Pyre
6. Sleep Demon
7. Under The Spell
8. Shadow Of Plague

The album will be available via all major streaming services but can also be ordered by Supreme Chaos Records here. Find out more about The Ossuary and keep up to date with news by checking out their Facebook Page.