The shocking and painful beauty of 'The Comforting Grip of Misery' by UK atmospheric black metal ambiguity And Now The Owls Are Smiling is strikingly obvious from the very beginning of this latest release.
This is an album that tackles the themes of reconnecting with one's self in productive and destructive ways; the notion that, maybe, behind a smile a noose is tightening and the peace and tranquillity of the natural realm can rest troubled minds. The music weaves epic soundscapes that have evolved in the mid of Nre - the man behind the band - and features guest performances from enchanting vocalist Linds Bestwicke and Old Corpse Road guitarist, Steve Blackwood.