It is interesting to know that October Tide
originated in 1995, got to release two albums before year 2000, and to hear what
has happened since then. Those interested in the musicians Jonas Renkse and
Fredrik Norrman must know that they have had a career with Katatonia and that
the latter is the guitarist and remaining main actor behind OT.
It is difficult not to consider OT's first two releases as treasures resulting
from the temporary break Katatonia had. The main reason why the band's public
profile has been low is that the founders of the band resolutely refused to go
public, which has granted them an underground status.
The result of this course of events and choices
is A thin shell, characteristic clear, light doom with many finesses. The music
shows a certain link between the two bands, as both bear the same melodic
character, A thin shell being more doomish and deep down than what I know of
Katatonia. This is an elegant piece of music, at first listening not necessarily
a record that is going to stand the test of time, but one that still grows on
one after a while. My favourite: Fragile with its Paradise Lost's Icon features.
OT has come to a new age and I can very well
imagine them at festivals, so book them if you still can!
