It would be difficult to argue that Otep Shamaya has not been one of the most provocative figures on the Metal scene over the last 2 decades. The leading force behind the band Otep, Shamaya has not only challenged the status quo, but stood out with her unique vocal stylings that range from bellowing screams and spoken words, to more subtle, softer singing. A true pioneer doing things her own way, many recall the impression Otep’s debut EP from 2001 Jihad made, leading into the 2002 album Sevas Tra. A grand beginning, 2004’s House of Secrets was equally as intense, leading into a list of other albums that left an impression; from 2007’s The Ascension through to 2011’s Atavist.
All a part of the history of Otep, to many, it was 2013’s Hydra that truly solidified the band. Released on January 22nd of 2013, the album marked Otep’s sixth overall, third and final with Victory Records, plus their second to include production from the award-winning Engineer Ulrich Wild. Additionally, it was the only album to feature drum programming as opposed to live drums for the band, and above all, had a consistent concept throughout it. Based on the character of Hydra (a girl corrupted by the world and surrounded by evil), apparently it also required a lot of energy to make as well. This included Shamaya writing it in 4 weeks, before going on to record it for 12 hours a day, 6 days a week and 4 hours on Sunday over a period of 16 weeks.
All interesting facts behind Hydra, what really stands out about the album is the extremely unsettling feeling amidst it all. From the wide range of poetry spoken to the raw subject matter, there is really no safe place to rest a weary head amidst the 13 songs that make up the album. In all, Hydra sustained itself in 2013; becoming a Top 10 Billboard Hard Rock Album, but also making its way as one of the most popular records of that year, staying within the Billboard 200. Both very impressive feats for such a dark, outside the mainstream album, Hydra’s 10th anniversary is celebrated in 2023 with a very special 2-LP release.
Available for the first time ever on vinyl, Craft Recordings released the set on October 6th for fans to pick up. Presented in a 2-LP gatefold, the set also features an exclusive etching on Side D that is rather stunning. This all laid out, the vinyl is of the highest quality, the sound is razor sharp, and packaging is extremely solid. Also featuring each track’s lyrics on the vinyl sleeves themselves, it gives you Hydra in a format that it was truly meant for.
The design, truly flawless, is also available on a limited Apple Red edition (exclusively via CraftRecordings.com), and all of this was actually overseen by Shamaya herself. So, if you are looking to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Hydra in a new way, it is recommended you pick up either edition of the 2LP set, because Cryptic Rock gives it 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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