“The Bleakness of Our Constant” from Eneferens is a triumphant, enigmatic, cinematic Prog Death Metal opus for 2018. From rousing to intense to reflective to somber, this record covers the gamut. Like a good D&D character, the album rolls high at different times in Strength, Intelligence, Wisdom, Dexterity, and quiet Charisma.

The Prog Death genre can be thorny; Enferens’ music and listeners will emerge with some scrapes and scratches, but with no lasting scars. One of the most common snags for DM bands is the growled vocals. . . and Enferens are no exception. My issue is not an automatic dismissal of the sound; I just find that t he growled vocal sections of songs on “TBoOC” are the least interesting. These are the times when I tune out. Compounding the issue: the clean vocal and instrumental parts are so damn lustrous and just wonderful; they showcase the best parts of this genre.
I can’t believe we’ve gotten three paragraphs into a Prog Death Metal review without mentioning Opeth, but here it is. Opeth are one of the most influential bands of the 21st Century, and for over a decade, have been the standard-bearers for the genre - - but the ranks around them have become swollen with cavalry and foot soldiers. With “The Bleakness of our Constant,” Enferens have distinguished themselves in the field. I hope they continue to evolve and create great music, and that the Metal world gives them the accolades and encouragement they need to keep going.
Highlight tracks: "Leave," "Amethyst," and "Awake," although every song on this record has something to offer. There are glorious moments of "Weight of the Mind's Periapt," "This Onward Reach," and "Selene" too. And even strange, quiet little instrumental, "11:34," is a thing of beauty. This Eneferens album is a thing of beauty.