Esoctrihilum, a one man project that saw its first light in 2017 with ‘Mystic echo from a funeral dimension’ has presented yet another full length album. After many great releases Asthaghul now presents ‘Ghostigmatah, Spiritual Rites of the Psychopomp Abxulöm’ and what a release it has been…
What is to be expected from a Esoctrihilum release is hard to pin down to. He doesn’t really sound like any other band but it reminds me of Deathspell Omega, with the dissonant tones and complexity to listen to the music. This is not an album for ‘beginners’ in the genre, there is a lot to comprehend and a single play through is by far not enough to grasp the whole concept.
Take your time with ‘Ghostigmatah, Spiritual Rites of the Psychopomp Abxulöm’ as the album consists of more than 80 minutes of harsh guitar tones and a haunting sense of despair. The use of synths adds to the overall feeling, although it clouds the mix a little bit. The music in general is atmospheric, yet very aggressive. It is something the listener needs to experience for themself, love or hate it. Given a glimpse into the abyss, while something is looking back at you. The melodic and cosmic parts are really putting the heavy parts into perspective. The balance is there, yet keeping the mystique of the soundscape alive.
At times it sounds alien, disconnected from this realm. The use of clean vocals brings a sense of hypnotisation. Esoctrihilum is one of the old gods and tries to lure you into utter darkness.
I will not delve into specific tracks in this review, the overall sound has been made clear. This is a trip into insanity while being very brutal in its execution. You are being a witness to a descent into madness. And I suggest you let yourself indulge in these powers beyond our realm and comprehension!
85/100
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