Hermyth – Aether

Pegah

Italian cosmic Doomgaze band Hermyth returns with its second album, Aether. In ancient science, “aether” is the fifth element—the essence that binds the other four, the very fabric of existence. Staying true to its name, Aether is a journey through transcendence, guidance, and spiritual ascension, woven into a rich tapestry of ethereal, grandiose, and melancholic soundscapes. The album’s cover art reflects this celestial mysticism, depicting an angel-like figure adrift among the stars against a vast black backdrop—evoking the feeling of being lost, or perhaps found, somewhere in the infinite cosmos.

The album opens with “Heavens”, a place considered to be the reward of life and the ultimate point of all human existence. According to ancient cosmologies, heaven is located in astral realms. This track reflects this place with its atmospheric soundscape and a touch of sorrow, beginning with a narrative that seems to be addressing a figure undertaking a challenging journey. The soaring melodies and heavy yet ethereal instrumentation enhance the sense of transcendence. The idea of an unseen guide, an angelic voice, and the invocation of a “transcendent love” align with the concept of Beatrice guiding Dante through the celestial spheres in The Divine Comedy.

“Aether” reinforces the album’s overarching themes of cosmic exploration, transcendence, and spiritual rebirth. The soundscape is more powerful, as if trying to emphasize a sense of movement—both physical and metaphysical—woven through the lyrics, with imagery of galaxies colliding, whispers of the cosmos, and the dance of creation. The mention of “Akasha” suggests an esoteric or philosophical influence, a concept from theosophy that represents universal knowledge or memory imprinted in the fabric of existence.

“Marigold” introduces a more nature-infused, symbolic layer to the album’s themes while still maintaining that cosmic, spiritual essence. The marigold becomes a powerful metaphor—both a natural force and a divine entity, tied to cycles of life, death, and rebirth. The connection to the sun reinforces themes of illumination, transformation, and divine power. This track could be more melancholic and ethereal, perhaps with shimmering, reverberating guitars and hypnotic rhythms to reflect the marigold’s spinning motion and celestial dance. “Black Moon Lilith” takes a more defiant turn compared to the previous tracks. It introduces a figure of power and rebellion—Lilith, often associated with exile, autonomy, and primal feminine energy. The lyrics carry a strong sense of awakening and return. There’s also a deeply symbolic transformation, shifting from dream to demon, nymph to lion, echoing themes of destruction, renewal, and self-sovereignty. This track carries more weight with deep, ominous tones and dramatic shifts to mirror Lilith’s return from exile, as well as a mix of haunting atmospheres and powerful, commanding vocal lines.

A very light and soft melody opens “Divination”, which seems to continue the album’s themes of searching, struggle, and cosmic reckoning. There’s a strong sense of longing and frustration—seeking wisdom, breaking free from illusions, and confronting a fate that seems predetermined. This track is a combination of melancholic beauty, crushing heaviness, and poetic lyricism. “The High Priestess” sounds like a haunting, introspective conclusion to the album—one that leans back into the vast, atmospheric elements while carrying a deep sense of solitude and surrender. This track, which is the longest, evokes isolation, cosmic indifference, and a plea for mercy that may or may not be answered. The imagery of carving patterns off the skin could symbolize shedding identity, suffering as a form of transformation, or even a ritualistic act of release.

Aether is steeped in a powerful sense of duality—light and dark, fire and void, creation and destruction. There’s a bittersweet sorrow running through it, deep but never overwhelming, like a gentle breeze dancing among the trees. Fans of Draconian and Trees of Eternity will find much to love in this album, as it brings the same depth and ethereal atmosphere to the forefront, offering a transcendent journey that resonates long after the music fades.

Label: Meuse Records

Release date: March 7, 2025

Website: https://hermyth.bandcamp.com/album/aether

Country: Italy

Score: 4.0/5.0