Cinematic Black Metal project ERSHETU, founded in 2021 by conceptualist/lyricist Void (DMP) and composer Sacr, unveils a second glimpse into their upcoming album, “Yomi“.
Listen to the album’s third track, ‘Sekiryō‘, on DMP’s YouTube channel and via Bandcamp:
”Sekiryō‘ merges the raw intensity of Black Metal with rich cinematic atmospheres. Opening with haunting ambient textures, the track explodes into fierce guitars, blast beats, and chilling vocals from Vindsval (BLUT AUS NORD, FORHIST). A serene midsection of ethereal soundscapes and melodic guitars offers a brief respite before a powerful, thunderous finale which showcases ERSHETU‘s distinctive fusion of contrasting styles.
Composer Sacr shares his thoughts on the creation and structure of ‘Sekiryō‘:
“‘Sekiryō‘ could have started with a long section played solely on the Koto (from 0:16 to 2:39), but in the end, I preferred to integrate guitars, bass, and drums because I felt it would have made the introduction too long. This opening passage is, for me, interesting because it gradually builds emotional intensity before releasing, like someone resisting death until they finally let go and free their soul. It leads to a sense of peace.
After that, the track maintains a certain slowness with different dark atmospheres, until the shift to a faster rhythm with a very Japanese-inspired melody
Vindsval really unleashed his creativity on this track. His vocals are incredible! It’s like souls crying out, hoping for redemption. At least, that’s how it feels to me.“
Lead vocalist Vindsval adds:
“I took my time before agreeing to record all of “Yomi”s vocal parts, as Lars had done an incredible job on the first album, and stepping in for him was a particularly daunting task. Ultimately, I decided to approach the project in a radically different manner. I don’t possess his vocal abilities or mastery of singing, and attempting to imitate him would have been an absurd idea destined to fail. Instead, I worked as I do with BLUT AUS NORD, using my voice as an instrument in its own right. I never prioritize vocals in my mixes; rather, I treat them as an integral part of the arrangement that serves the compositions, and the atmosphere created by the music. This is evident in “Yomi” and in this second excerpt, where you can hear a blend of many distinct voices, ensuring that the composer’s intention remains intact.” Find all info about “Yomi” here!
“Yomi” will be released on CD, vinyl – including exclusive DMP editions (CD/vinyl) – and digital via Debemur Morti on November 8th. A specifically designed t-shirt will accompany the launch. Pre-orders are available via the label’s EU, US and Bandcamp shop.
ERSHETU was founded in 2021 by conceptualist/lyricist Void and composer Sacr to create cinematic music that blends epic, obscure, and atmospheric Metal with the evocative dramatism of film scores. Each album examines the concept of ‘death’ as interpreted by different civilizations or religions.
The project’s 2023 debut, “Xibalba“, drew inspiration from Mayan folklore and sacred text the Popol Vuh, and featured the unmistakable vocals of Norway’s Lars Are Nedland (BORKNAGAR, SOLEFALD) plus bass/additional guitars by the enigmatic French artist Vindsval (BLUT AUS NORD, FORHIST).
ERSHETU‘s upcoming second work, “Yomi“, explores the death-lore of Japanese Shinto. The album features an expanded role for Vindsval – including lead vocals – and sees the band heading to deeper and darker territory. “Yomi” is set for release on November 8, 2024.
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