Spectral Lore – Gnosis (2015)

Continuing ‘their’ experimental journey, one-man behemoth Spectral Lore returns with a hefty Middle Eastern inspired release titled “Gnosis”. Labeled as an EP, but clocking in at nearly 50 minutes, this release moves away from the extremely experimental nature of “Voyager” and moves into territories of bands like Melechesh, Myrath, and Orphaned Land.

Opening with the ravaging “Dualism”, we are instantly directed to a journey of guitar driven Melodic Black Metal with some very subtle hints of Middle Eastern inspired elements. The vocals are not traditionally delivered and only spawn some shrieks and whispers, adding extra mysticism to this release. As the album slowly progresses into the melodic brilliance of “Gnosis’ Journey Through the Ages”, we are greatly enjoying the ethereal atmospheric elements that further enhance the engaging riffing and intricate bass guitar line.

Things move into more traditional territories with the acoustic songs “Averroes’ Search” and the magical and very ethereal “For Aleppo”. In these songs, Ayloss delivers some very interesting compositions that feel quite authentic and very natural. Both tracks perfectly blend with the ‘Metal’ tracks and provide a nice overall flow to this unique release. Our favorite piece in this album is the 14-minute epic “A God Made of Flesh and Consciousness”, a song that could easily be a collaboration between Melechesh and Orphaned Land as it has both BM elements and very crafty melodic elements.

Overall, “Gnosis” is a very unique and engaging release that only a very crafty outfit like Spectral Lore could pull-off. The experimental nature of the album is very well explored and comes together in a very cohesive and engaging way. Perfectly balancing Black Metal riffs with more ‘authentic’ elements and high atmospheric doses, this album will surely engage all fans of experimental Atmospheric Black Metal and fans of any Middle Eastern-infused bands.

Label: I, Voidhanger Records

Release: December 7th, 2015

Genre: Melodic/Atmospheric Black Metal

Country: Greece