By Jai That Aussie Metal Guy – Crannk.com
In the ever-evolving world of progressive extreme metal, few bands have carved a legacy as bold and emotionally resonant as Australia’s own Ne Obliviscaris. Formed in Melbourne in 2003, the band has earned a devoted international following thanks to their intricate compositions, technical mastery, and the unique fusion of classical violin with harsh and clean vocals. Their upcoming Citadel/Exul Australian Tour with fellow metal titans Psycroptic marks not just a homecoming, but a defining moment in the band’s history.
Ahead of this monumental tour, I had the chance to sit down with Tim Charles, violinist and clean vocalist of Ne Obliviscaris, for an in-depth conversation on the band’s career, their ambitious live shows, and the introduction of a new era with vocalist James Dorton.
A Tour Over 20 Years in the Making
This June, Ne Obliviscaris will hit the road with Psycroptic, marking the first time these two legendary Australian acts have toured nationally together since 2008. For many fans, this is a dream lineup—two genre-defying forces of extreme metal, finally joining forces once again for a five-date run across the country.
“We’re so stoked to bring this to the fans. Psycroptic are a band we’ve admired since the beginning. Their technical savagery is unmatched, and the respect goes both ways. We’ve been talking about doing something together again for years, and the stars finally aligned,” Tim shared during the interview.
The tour will see Ne Obliviscaris perform not one but two full albums—their beloved 2014 opus Citadel and their latest critically acclaimed release, Exul. The band recently reissued Citadel as a remastered 10th anniversary edition, a testament to its enduring influence.
Reflecting on Citadel and Reaching for Exul
For Ne Obliviscaris, Citadel marked a breakthrough. With its seamless blend of brutality and beauty, the album helped propel the band onto the international stage.
“Citadel changed everything for us,” Tim explained. “It was the album where we found our voice as a band. We wanted to give it the justice it deserved for its tenth birthday. The remaster gave us a chance to bring out the nuances we couldn’t highlight back then.”
Their most recent release, Exul, continues that trajectory, pushing further into the abyss of melancholy and power. One of the standout tracks for me was the two-part, “Misericorde I & II,” which captures the essence of the record: a breathtaking journey through soaring violin lines, guttural growls, and moments of serene clarity.
Enter James Dorton: A New Era Begins
After the recent departure of long-time harsh vocalist Xenoyr, the band officially welcomed James Dorton into the fold. Dorton, known for his work with Black Crown Initiate, had already spent two years touring with Ne Obliviscaris internationally.
“James has been an absolute powerhouse. He stepped in at a very pivotal time for us and has brought his own flair while respecting the legacy of the band,” Tim stated.
Fans can expect to see James front and center for the very first time on Australian soil this June, a performance sure to mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Ne Obliviscaris.
Citadel/Exul Australian Tour Dates
Tue June 10 – Magnet House, Perth
Thu June 12 – Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide
Fri June 13 – 170 Russell, Melbourne
Sat June 14 – Metro Theatre, Sydney
Sun June 15 – Princess Theatre, Brisbane
TICKETS: Ne Obliviscaris – Offical Website
Connect with Ne Obliviscaris
- Website: neobliviscaris.com.au
