Lord of the Lost's 'Opvs Noir Vol 2' arrives with a rapid-fire follow-up, but does it maintain the initial magic?
It seems the prolific minds behind Lord of the Lost had a clear vision for their ambitious 33-song trilogy, as just a mere four months after the release of 'Opvs Noir Vol 1,' we're already treated to 'Opvs Noir Vol 2.' This quick succession is almost like a perfectly timed holiday surprise! My first encounter with this band, a former Eurovision finalist, was with Vol 1, and I was genuinely impressed. So, finding Vol 2 in the December promo pile brought a wave of anticipation. The rapid release suggests that the entire trilogy might have been conceived as a single, grand opus, much like Tolkien's legendary saga. The big question on everyone's mind is: can Chris Harms and his bandmates sustain the impressive quality that kicked off this monumental project?
And this is the part most people miss: 'Opvs Noir Vol 2' delivers precisely what you'd expect after its predecessor, but with an even greater sense of polish and consistency. Lord of the Lost masterfully weaves together melancholic gothic and industrial metal, artfully infused with infectious pop sensibilities. From the very first note to the last, the album announces its dark intentions with a rich tapestry of sorrowful strings, evocative pianos, atmospheric synths, and even the haunting resonance of organs. Chris Harms's vocals, of course, are the perfect embodiment of this gothic allure, dripping with dark charisma. While Vol 1 featured a more diverse array of guest artists, Vol 2 tends to stick closer to the core Lord of the Lost sound. However, two collaborations stand out as truly exceptional.
First, we have the electrifying Käärijä, the Finnish rapper who famously snagged second place in Eurovision 2023 with his unforgettable track “Cha Cha Cha.” He injects a surge of raw energy into the techno-industrial dance track “Raveyard” with a rap solo that is bound to be a talking point. It's undeniably a blast to hear him in action! But the true showstopper is Lena Scissorhands from Infected Rain, who absolutely owns her feature on “Would You Walk with Me Through Hell.” Her dynamic interplay with Harms, seamlessly transitioning between clean vocals and guttural growls, culminates in an explosive finale that propels the album into an incredible start.
But here's where it gets controversial: Through their lyrical narratives and a noticeably softer musical approach, Lord of the Lost unveils a deeply sensitive side. The prominent use of piano throughout the album underscores this tenderness, evident in the poignant piano ballad “One of Us Will Be Next” and the piano-driven opening of the more energetic “Scarlight.” Don't mistake this sensitivity for weakness, though – these two tracks are absolute anthems! The gentle introduction to “Scarlight” only amplifies its impact when it crescendos into a catchy and profoundly moving chorus. Harms's empathetic delivery of lines like “Tell me your fears, take all the time you need” has the power to simultaneously soothe and invigorate your spirit. Yet, even this powerful track is arguably surpassed by the deeply affecting “One of Us Will Be Next,” a song that might just bring you to tears as you sing along with a voice thick with emotion. Just be mindful of your surroundings when you're belting out the line about dying – you might attract some curious glances!
The combination of expertly crafted lyrics, emotionally resonant vocal performances, and sweeping cinematic instrumental passages creates a record that is both heartfelt and deeply touching. It's the kind of music that stays with you long after the last note fades.
The greater consistency, however, presents a bit of a dilemma. On one hand, it results in a more cohesive and unified album. On the other, it could be perceived as a less adventurous, perhaps even risk-averse, approach. The middle section of 'Opvs Noir Vol 2' does feel a touch less impactful on a couple of tracks. While perfectly good, songs like “The Last Star” and “What Have We Become” might play it a little too safe for some listeners. The sheer variety present in Vol 1 made for a more consistently engaging listening experience from start to finish. Nevertheless, Vol 2 undeniably feels more like a definitive Lord of the Lost statement. And even these “safer” tracks manage to hold your attention, largely thanks to the undeniable charisma of Chris Harms. He casts a spell on the minimalist closer, “Sharp Edges,” with his captivating tenor and masterful cadence. Similarly, “Winter’s Dying Heart” transforms into a beautiful ballad, a testament to the synergy of its symphonic elements, heavy guitar rhythms, and Harms’s compelling performance. Vol 2, despite being just a few months younger than its predecessor, exudes a greater sense of maturity. And while maturity might sometimes be a synonym for dullness, here it translates into a richer, more profound emotional depth.
So, where does it stand? Even though it shares the same numerical score as Vol 1, I personally rank 'Opvs Noir Vol 2' slightly below its predecessor. While Vol 1 felt like it was pushing the boundaries and reaching for new heights, Vol 2 firmly establishes itself within the 'very good' category. I do miss the broader spectrum of variety found on Vol 1, but I also genuinely appreciate the reduced number of guest appearances on Vol 2, as it allows for a clearer and more focused glimpse into the true identity of Lord of the Lost. Furthermore, no track on Vol 1 quite hits with the same emotional force as “One of Us Will Be Next,” a song that is a strong contender for my song of the year. Given the unwavering quality of the 'Opvs Noir' albums so far, I am eagerly anticipating the final installment, which will likely grace us with its presence in just a few short months.
What do you think? Is a more consistent album always better, or do you prefer the adventurous spirit of Vol 1? Does the emotional impact of “One of Us Will Be Next” make Vol 2 a must-listen despite its perceived safety? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Rating: 3.5/5.0
DR: N/A | Format Reviewed: Stream
Label: Napalm Records
Websites: Bandcamp | Facebook | Official Site
Releases Worldwide: December 12th, 2025
