S
ESOCTRILIHUM - Döth-Dernià
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While exploring the releases from I, Voidhanger Records, I was searching for bands that could replicate the same sense of musical transportation I experience when listening to Midnight Odyssey. That’s when I came across Döth-Derniàlh by Esoctrilihum, and its artwork immediately caught my eye. Designed by Asthâghul himself, the cover features a naive painting that encapsulates the album's esoteric themes. The artwork portrays abstract cosmic imagery, with swirling patterns and ethereal figures, reflecting the album’s exploration of both outer and inner worlds. The dark hues and intricate designs invited me to dive deeper into the masterclass that Döth-Derniàlh creates.
Döth-Derniàlh is a collection of seven expansive tracks, each plunging deep into atmospheric and symphonic black metal. Asthâghul’s multi-instrumental talent is evident throughout, as he expertly blends traditional metal instrumentation with unique additions such as 12-string acoustic guitars, nyckelharpa, organs, and synths, giving the album an unparalleled depth and texture
Choosing my favorite tracks was a difficult task because each one represents the peak of what this album has to offer. However, there are a few that resonate with me more personally. That being said, I don’t want to undermine the brilliance of the other songs—they all bring something special to the table, and each one is a showcasing to the creativity and skill that went into the album. If I had to choose, Dy'th Eternalhys, Zilthuryth, and Atüš Liberüš stand out just a little more for me.
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One of my favourite moments occurs in Dy'th Eternalhys around 7:26. At this point, you hear a delicate tremolo-picked melody played near the bottom of the neck, which creates a hauntingly captivating tone. Gradually, the drums build, layering new textures as the song unfolds. This continues for a good minute, with each instrument adding more depth to the atmosphere. As the section intensifies, rapid blast beats come in, driving the track forward. However, at 9:50, the song takes an unexpected turn. A beautiful nylon-string guitar enters, its resonant tones blending with intricate melodies underneath. The vocals that follow are ethereal and distant, yet strangely intimate, weaving subtle harmonies that add complexity to the already rich atmosphere. This is where Asthâghul truly shines—navigating mood shifts with ease, ensuring the track remains both immersive and captivating.
At 12:32, there’s yet another flawless transition that completely blew me away. Up until this point, the song had already transported me to another world, but this moment solidified that Döth-Derniàlh was going to be one of those albums I would revisit time and time again. The transition feels so natural, and the song flows effortlessly into a new section, reinforcing the album’s ability to constantly surprise and keep the listener hooked.
In all honesty, I’d rate Döth-Derniàlh an outstanding 9.5/10. which makes this the highest rated album i’ve reviewed since my release.
The album drew me in with its creative depth, seamlessly blending different musical styles. From the cosmic, psychedelic black metal atmosphere to the complex layers and transitions, Döth-Derniàlh offers a musical experience that feels both vast and personal. I’m incredibly grateful to have discovered this masterpiece, and I’m thrilled to now have it in my physical collection. I’ll definitely be keeping a close eye on this project moving forward, with high hopes for what’s to come. Thank you for this amazing music, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
9-10: Exceptional
7-8: Good, Great
5-6: Average, Decent
3-4: Fair, Mediocre
1-2: Poor, Subpar
