Theogonia Records presents the long-awaited debut album from Greek black metal masters, Temple of Katharsis, titled "Macabre Ritual." Prepare to descend into the depths of darkness as this monumental opus is set to be unleashed on August 4, 2023, in jewel case CD and digital formats.
"Macabre Ritual" is a sinister journey that delves deep into the realms of satanism, anti-religion, death, darkness, and war. With influences drawn from both the Scandinavian and Greek black metal scenes, Temple of Katharsis has crafted a sound that is unyielding, intense, and hauntingly captivating.
This abyssal odyssey features eight unholy hymns that will cast a malevolent spell upon all who dare to listen. From the chilling and atmospheric depths of "Abyssal Cold Void" to the relentless assault of "The Burning Flood of Antichrist," and the occultic incantations of "Inside the Medieval Crypt," each track immerses the listener in a macabre world of sinister rituals and sinister narratives.
Prepare to be entranced as the intricate storytelling unfolds within the 12-page booklet, which includes lyrics and other cryptic information, guiding you deeper into the cryptic abyss of "Macabre Ritual."
With bass and vocals recorded at the renowned H12 Audio in Thessaloniki, and guitars recorded at the enigmatic "Dark Templar H/Studio" in Kalamata, the production quality of "Macabre Ritual" is a testament to the dedication and expertise that Temple of Katharsis brings to their craft.
Produced by Major and meticulously mixed and mastered at H12 Audio, the album emerges with an uncompromising sonic force, capturing every bone-chilling detail and enhancing the immersive experience. The collaboration between Temple of Katharsis and these studios has resulted in a meticulously crafted sonic journey that will envelop listeners in a world of darkness and despair.
Having made waves in the underground black metal scene with their demo, EP, and split album releases, Temple of Katharsis has established themselves as a formidable force in the genre. Sharing stages with legends like Septic Flesh, Rotting Christ, and Gaerea, their live performances are nothing short of mesmerizing, leaving audiences spellbound.
Prepare yourself for the impending darkness as Temple of Katharsis unveils their debut album, "Macabre Ritual." Brace your soul for a harrowing exploration of black metal mastery, as the veil between worlds is torn asunder. Stay tuned for more updates as the ritual draws near. Let the macabre dance begin.
Blackbraid quickly followed up their 2022 debut in 2023 with more native folk infused furious black metal. This is by no means a sophomore slump as it is equally excellent, methodical, melodical, and approachable as the first record. 9/10 RJ
A treacherous offering. Brilliant melodies in riffs, 90s style vocals, and solid composition. Songwriting ability shows more here than in Where Silence Whispers. By far my favorite in the Greek scene. May be my favorite of all 2022 releases. afcturn_
This album is so good! Short and atmospheric intro followed by almost 50 minutes of energetic, freezing, highly infectious black metal that's mainly defined by Lethian's powerful, emotive and rasping vocals as well as a plethora of swirling, fantastic riffs interwoven with simple, but stunning melodies! Dedicated to the Night is a prime example of all these elements coming together and being further enhanced by Matunos' clearly discernable bass and Farliath's ferocious drumming! What a gem! David Fischer
Scorching black metal from Houston, featuring members of Night Cobra, Oceans of Slumber, Venomous Maximus, and more. Bandcamp New & Notable Jun 7, 2023
Gaerea's first release of "Unsettling Whispers" was in 2018, and since, they dared define a "black metal" niche of their own, they dared to walk a new path and stir shit up a bit in the realm of BM, this album is a masterpiece and a milestone proving that it can be done, provided the band can pull it off, and they did, oh they did! Gloomy, dark, post-BM sludgy whatever, it's Gaerea, and this one belongs in my BC collection, the end. sachavonkarl74