Unleashing the Power: A Must-Read Review of Frailty by OU – II in Metal Hammer
Prog metal has long been known for its complex and challenging nature, but Beijing’s OU – pronounced ‘O’ – is here to push the boundaries and bring a fresh, innovative sound to the genre. Their first album, released in 2022, caught the attention of many with its unique blend of knotty riffs, time changes, and the mesmerizing vocals of singer Lynn Wu.
Comparisons to Björk singing in Mandarin Chinese highlight the otherworldly and ethereal quality that Lynn brings to the table, making OU a standout in the prog metal scene. With the support of Devin Townsend as co-producer, their latest album, II: Frailty, takes their sound to new heights.
The opening track, Frailty, weaves delicate piano chords with a shifting rhythmic backdrop, showcasing the band’s technical prowess and Lynn’s haunting vocals. Songs like Purge, featuring Devin’s backing roars, transport listeners to a futuristic world where art metal reigns supreme.
Redemption is a slow-burning anthem, while Recall mesmerizes with its layered vocals and hypnotic percussion. OU’s music feels like a blend of AI creativity and human emotion, creating a truly unique listening experience.
While the band has yet to perform live, the release of II: Frailty signals a new era for prog metal, one where innovation and experimentation reign supreme. Stay tuned for the album’s release on April 26 via InsideOut Music and prepare to embark on a sonic journey unlike any other.
