It’s been way too long since we heard from Aquilus.
The Melbourne-based neoclassical extreme metal project last graced us with its presence in 2011 on their glorious debut album, Griseus. Headed by its sole creative mastermind, Waldorf, Aquilus is not your average “symphonic metal” act. Waldorf takes extra care to use the combination of classical, folk and black metal elements to create a mood and atmosphere all his own. Sure, you can make comparisons to bands like Opeth, Ne Obliviscaris and Empyrium, but this still wouldn’t do justice to Aquilus’ unique brand of musical sorcery.
And thus we are blessed in 2021 to have a new album on the way. Bellum I will arrive on December 3 via Blood Music. For anyone who liked the ideas on Griseus but perhaps wanted an immediate, in-your-face black metal spirit to shine through, prepare to open the gates for this release. We here at Decibel are pleased to premiere the latest single off that album, called “Lucille’s Gate.” According to Waldorf:
“This track showcases some of the more blackened metal elements on the album. And the killer drumming by the Aquilus live/session drummer Zebadee Scott.”
The masterful drumming is apparent right away, and provides a powerful backdrop to the guitars, keyboard-driven sounds, and the picture-perfect raw vocals. “Lucille’s Gate” strikes the ideal balance between epic and accessible, grand and gripping, and complex but engaging. Enjoy!
