Astraal Constellations Of The Majickal Zodiac

Majickal indeed

I must admit I'm a sucker for a concept album. Anyone can put on background music while they go about their daily routine but to sit and devote time and attention to an album that truly deserves it is a rewarding experience. Put in the effort and be transported by the music. Astraal Constellations Of The Majickal Zodiac is one such album. Over two hours in length divided into three parts on three discs. And amazingly Asthaghul, Esoctrilihum's lone member and multi-instrumentalist and composer, released another full length this year as well. To say he is prolific is an understatement. Ten LP's since 2017. I haven't heard them all but I've heard enough to state with confidence that the quality never wanes. Black metal has so many great bands with only one or two members. Talent to spare. This album reminds me of Blood Geometry by Elysian Blaze. Truly epic in scope and composition. Also Rain Upon The Impure, Domedon Doxomdon, and countless other long albums that hold the listener hostage from start to finish are good reference points. The packaging is beautiful, the music is crushing, dark, melodic, and engrossing. Esoctrilihum is truly a force in black metal. My only qualm is that being on I,Voidhanger Records the albums can be difficult to get in the States. Ran into the same thing with Mare Cognitum albums. But if you're persistent you can find them. Seek and be detroyed!