Here we have a very impressive release from Akolyth, a one-man band where the sole member is Sphere, with the exception of his former work in which D provided additional instrumentation. So far, the project has released two full-lengths: the first in 2020, and this current one from 2025 that we are about to dive into. ‘Ecstatic Kingdom’ grabs you right from the start, throwing you straight into the abyss…
A fierce Thrash/Black Metal opening delivers distant yet exceptionally well-executed vocals. While the production sounds a bit blurry at times, the music itself has a lot of great elements to offer. With 4 songs in total, 3 out of 4 deliver a pure, old-school Black Metal vibe that lands like an inescapable punch in the face. The final track shifts into a mid-tempo groove, blessed with melodic riffing in the background that transports you to your final destination, just as the title ‘Without Light’ declares.
Riff-wise, you will discover elements reminiscent of perhaps Marduk or, I would dare say, Deathspell Omega at some points, along with a few Doom Metal styled riffs towards the end. I must also mention how much I absolutely love the drum production and the overall guitar tone. Amor Fati Productions is responsible for both of the band’s releases, so go check them out.
