We sat down with Tim Charles of Australia’s progressive metal pioneers Ne Obliviscaris who are about to unleash their most ambitious tour to date. This June, the Melbourne-based sextet will perform Citadel and Exul—two of their most acclaimed albums—in full across every Australian capital city. Yes, that includes Perth.
But this tour is more than just a celebration of two records. It’s a defining moment for a band that’s been evolving for over two decades. We caught up with violinist and clean vocalist Tim Charles to talk about the journey from Citadel to Exul, their new frontman James Dorton, and how growing up as a classical violinist laid the foundation for NeO’s unique sound.
“This 2-hour set is going to be our biggest ever here in Australia,” Tim shared. “We’ll be playing Citadel and Exul in full—it’s going to be really special.”
🎻 Citadel: The Breakthrough That Changed Everything
Released in 2014, Citadel was the album that pushed Ne Obliviscaris from cult status to international acclaim. Fusing blistering guitar work, intricate drumming, harsh/clean dual vocals, and Charles’ emotive violin, Citadel remains a fan favourite and a landmark release in modern progressive metal.
“Citadel was the first time we truly found our voice as a band,” Tim told us. “The passion, the risks we took—it all came together. And revisiting it now with the 10th anniversary remaster has been a nostalgic and humbling experience.”
The remastered edition of Citadel, which Ne Obliviscaris released earlier this year, brings even greater clarity and power to the already monumental record—just in time for its full performance this June.
🌌 Exul: The Sound of Now
2023’s Exul marked a new creative chapter for Ne Obliviscaris—an album born from personal struggle, collective growth, and sonic experimentation. With broader emotional themes and even more dynamic contrast, Exul showcases a matured band still hungry to push boundaries.
“Exul was written during a difficult period for all of us,” Tim reflected. “It’s an album filled with raw honesty. Playing it in full gives us a chance to take people on that emotional journey with us—from start to finish.”
🎙️ James Dorton’s First Australian Shows with Ne Obliviscaris
While James Dorton has been touring globally with NeO since 2022, the upcoming tour marks his first performances on Australian soil with the band. Known for his explosive vocal range and commanding stage presence, Dorton adds a new dimension to the NeO experience.
“James has been phenomenal,” Tim said. “He’s brought a renewed intensity to the band and is absolutely smashing it live. Aussie fans are in for something special.”
🎶 From Violin Lessons to Metal Stages
For Tim, it all started with classical music. Long before the world tours and festival stages, he was a young violinist immersed in orchestras and chamber ensembles. That foundation remains central to the band’s DNA.
“I never wanted to choose between classical and metal,” he said. “So I didn’t. That mix is what NeO is all about—fusing beauty and brutality in a way that’s totally our own.”
That passion has led to connections with other like-minded artists, including Eddie Berg from Swedish band Imminence.
“Eddie and I bonded over our shared love for the violin in metal,” Tim added. “It’s rare, and when someone else gets it, it’s like you’ve found a kindred spirit.”
🗓️ Ne Obliviscaris – Citadel / Exul Australian Tour 2025
- Tuesday, June 10 – Magnet House, Perth
- Thursday, June 12 – Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide
- Friday, June 13 – 170 Russell, Melbourne
- Saturday, June 14 – Metro Theatre, Sydney
- Sunday, June 15 – Princess Theatre, Brisbane
🎟️ Tickets On Sale: Friday, February 21 @ 9:00 AM local time
🔒 Patreon Pre-Sale: Wednesday, February 19 @ 9:00 AM
✨ VIP Experience Packages Available
👉 neobliviscaris.com.au
