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Oni’s latest offering, “The Silver Line,” is an electrifying journey through the realms of progressive metal/metalcore, showcasing their evolution as a band under the careful guidance of 5B Artist Management. With a history of collaborations with icons like Lamb of God, Chuck Billy, and even the late Chester Bennington, Oni has always been a group unafraid to push boundaries, and “The Silver Line” is no exception.
Oni has been quite busy! This third album from the Ontario-based band has been eagerly awaited by fans after the remarkable “Loathing Light” in 2022, which featured legendary guests Iggy Pop and Randy Blythe. Now, they’ve returned with a record that not only builds on their previous successes but takes them to new heights with an even more modern edge, an even more mature sound, boasting incredibly melodic vocals, harsher vocal screams, massive hooks and intense riffing reminiscent of Lamb of God.
Production, mixing, and mastering all by Josh Gilbert and Joe McQueen (known for their work with As I Lay Dying and Light The Torch) has resulted in a massively sonic landscape that’s both powerful and finely tuned. “The Silver Line” is, without a doubt, Oni’s most dynamic yet cohesive record to date.
What sets this album apart, aside from its more modern edge, is the incredible lineup of guest appearances. Jared Dines, Kellin Quinn of Sleeping With Sirens, Sueco, and Howard Jones (ex-Killswitch Engage) all contribute their unique styles, creating a massive wall of sound that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
“The Silver Line” is an album that promises a diverse musical journey. Opening with “Silhouette”, the album doesn’t waste anytime drawing you in with a mid-tempo, yet massive track with intense layering between the guitars, drums and synth layers all with incredible vocals.
“Spark” is a track that sees Los Angeles rapper and producer Sueco laying down some rhymes, perfectly juxtaposing with Oni’s massive melodic clean vocals.
“Underneath My Skin”, featuring Kellin Quinn, brings a refreshing blend of melodic vocals and heavy instrumentals, with massive swells, melodic hooks & intense screams. Kellin’s vocals have always had an incredible range, and perfectly fits with Oni’s incredible clean vocals.
Standout tracks such as “Silence In A Room Of Lies” and “Cyanide” explode with massively heavy instrumentals, aggressive vocals with some blast beats that rattle your insides.
Featuring producer/mixer and ex-vocalist for SikTh, Justin Hill lends his vocals to “The Dread”, this track punches you right in the gut right from the start with insanely harsh vocals and gut busting riffs. Hill’s contributions only elevate the song even more.
Probably one of my personal favorites, “Aura”, featuring ex lead vocalist/bass player from As I Lay Dying and current bass player of Spiritbox Josh Gilbert and ex Killswitch Engage’s Howard Jones showcases a masterful fusion of talent that will have you cranking the volume and head banging in no time, singing along at the top of your lungs.
The Contortionist’s Michael Lessard adds more to an already intense track. With a massive chorus, “Armageddon” sees intense vocals, yet is a melodic masterpiece that will send shivers down your spine.
Closing out this intense voyage is a must hear for long time fans of Oni. “Burns My Soul” is a perfect blend of the things Oni has been known for in the past that have worked really well, and brings in a more modern and mature edge.
I’ve come across some reviews that portrayed this album as mediocre, using descriptions like ‘a disappointment’ because of its ‘repetitive nature.’ However, I have a different perspective. I believe that each track possesses its own unique nuances, differentiating them from one another while simultaneously contributing to a more streamlined and cohesive overall effort. Oni’s “The Silver Line” has created a masterpiece that pays homage to their metal roots while embracing a new era of creativity. With this album, they have not just met but exceeded the expectations set by their previous works. Exploring the boundaries of the genre, this album is a must-hear for any fans of progressive metalcore.
Verdict: 4.5/5
Ethereal Metal 
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