Ofermod | Drakosophia | Shadow/Regain Records

 

Since the mid-90s, Ofermod has stood as one of Sweden’s most infamous black metal entities. Founded by Belfagor (Mika Hakola) in 1996, the band is often credited with shaping the concept of orthodox black metal, a style rooted not only in sound but also in deep esoteric and theistic Satanic tradition. Their influence has extended far beyond Sweden, inspiring countless acts in Europe and beyond. Despite turbulent years, including line-up shifts, controversies, and periods of silence, Ofermod’s vision has remained firmly tied to its occult foundation. Now, almost three decades since its creation, Belfagor returns with the project’s fifth full-length, “Drakosophia”, released through Shadow Records and distributed by Regain Records.

The album is followed by a striking lineup. Belfagor’s guitars are joined by Adeptus on vocals, Florian Musil (Schirenc Plays Pungent Stench, Asagraum) on drums, and Devo (ex-Marduk) on bass. This combination alone suggests both pedigree and intensity, and “Drakosophia” delivers exactly that—an audial experience steeped in ritualistic power.

Musically, the album channels the band’s signature vision of black metal as occult invocation. The riffs are steeped in menace, often spiraling into trance-like repetition while shifting between sudden aggression and brooding passages. The drumming maintains force and precision, alternating between blast-driven violence and slower, almost processional rhythms that emphasize the ceremonial atmosphere. Adeptus’ vocal presence is commanding, cutting through the crushing wall of sound with a ritualistic authority that complements the album’s spiritual weight. Devo’s bass provides a heavy, grounding element, ensuring the music never loses its oppressive density.

“Drakosophia” is not designed for casual listening. It operates as a sonic rite, meant to envelop the listener into its esoteric framework. There is a sense of initiation running through the work, an audio manifestation of the Draconian current that Ofermod has always been aligned with. Listeners familiar with their earlier material will recognize the band’s characteristic atmosphere, though here it feels sharpened into something more direct and unrelenting.

The production emphasizes raw intensity without sacrificing depth. Each instrument is distinct and unified in its purpose, serving the greater ritual. The result is an album that is vast and suffocating at once, demanding full immersion. This is black metal in its most devotional form—unyielding, ascetic, and entirely in service of its spiritual foundation. With “Drakosophia”, Ofermod once again solidify their place as torchbearers of orthodox black metal. It is an uncompromising work that continues the band’s legacy of merging music with metaphysical practice, offering listeners not entertainment, but initiation. Lepaca Nox Draconis! Ho Drakon Ho Megas!

Score: 8.3

http://regainrecords.bandcamp.com/album/drakosophia

www.facebook.com/ofermodofficial

www.shadowrecords.se