Akhlys - Melinoë (2020)

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From the mind of Naas Alcameth (Nightbringer, Aoratos, etc.) today we have an exercise in atmospheric brutality and madness Akhlys third full-length release “Melinoë”. Creating an unrivaled oppressive atmosphere since the opener, this release unleashes over 45 minutes of misanthropic music both punishing and ritualistic. If you think Nightbringer and Aoratos are intense, wait until you get a peek at the sheer power behind this release.

Setting a very macabre tone, the opener, “Somniloquy” creates a relentless atmosphere filled with pummeling drums and brilliantly layered guitars, unleashing a very oppressive vibe. Naas Alcameth’s signature vocals greatly enhance the sinister ambiance and nicely create hellish passages on tracks like “Pnigalion”, adding an extra layer of eeriness to an already highly atmospheric musical foundation.

The cinematic experience continues with the disturbing and ritualistic “Succubare”, shaking things up while delivering the same eerie atmospheric rigor as before. With a bit of an industrial vibe “Ephialtes”, is our favorite track thanks to its hypnotic vibe and ravaging drumming, creating a very chaotic and demoralizing atmosphere. Completing the ritual, “Incubatio” closes this release with sheer brutality thanks to a deathly combination of powerful shrieks and a very dramatic mixture of distorted guitars and piercing keyboards/atmospheric arrangements.

Overall, “Melinoë” is an outstanding release filled with atmospheric intricacies and piercing Black Metal elements. While this is not your traditional tremolo-picking BM release, Akhlys manages to create a magical atmosphere that is both oppressive and mystical. If you like your BM to be refined, have an excellent production, and are not afraid of aural abuse, this release will take you to new planes of consciousness.

Band: Akhlys Album: Melinoë

Label: Debmur Morti Productions

Release: December 14th, 2020

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Genre: Atmospheric Black Metal

Country: USA

Rating: 95/100
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