Black Lion Records is thrilled to announce the release of Melas Oneiros, the debut full-length from Polish melodic blackened death metallers Ephialtes. The album will come out on November 1st, on both CD and digital platforms.
About the band:
Ephialtes came to life during the global pandemic, due to Quazarre (Przemyslaw Tomasz Olbryt), known for his work with Devilish Impressions, Asgaard, and previously Crionics. He poured his creative energy into what would eventually become the debut record, Melas Oneiros. He later invited bandmates from Devilish Impressions for both recording and future live performances. Also contributing to the album is Marcus Edvardsson from Sweden’s Souldrainer, who added epic, choir-like synthesizer parts that complement the overall sound.
The band’s name, Ephialtes, has roots in Ancient Greek. It translates to “nightmare.” The term itself stems from ephàllomai, composed of epí (upon, on) and állomai (assault, climb, jump). Indeed, it refers to the popular belief that nightmares were personified as figures who climbed over the body of a sleeping person. In this way, Ephialtes represents “the one who leaps upon”—the nightmare. This concept, encapsulated in the band’s name, mirrors the depth of their lyrical themes. The band explores archetypal characters and events that are iconic and significant for humanity, turning Melas Oneiros into a profound thematic journey.
About the album:
Musically, Melas Oneiros is a full-throttle blend of melodic blackened death metal, with theatrical and progressive approaches. Hook-laden riffs, haunting melodies, and epic slowdowns… All weave together a sound that captures a beautiful aura peculiarly immersed in a dark, somber atmosphere.
Quazarre commented:
“We are certainly not reinventing the wheel down here. It is just our own take on the genre. We remain loyal to the classic. Yet, at the same time, are not afraid to push boundaries. When it comes to the artistic side of it, we are not here to please anyone but ourselves. We are the liberated ones. Also, we are to haunt you down while you are asleep. We are your sullen, recurring nightmare. The ‘One Who Leaps Upon’. We are Ephialtes!”
Melas Oneiros- Tracklist:
1. Ad Patres (Intro)
2. To the Victims of Sirens
3. In Her Embrace Again
4. The Void
5. Children of Arachne
6. Homo Deus
7. The Blood of the Gods
8. Pulvis Et Umbra Sumus
Album Credits:
Lineup:
Przemyslaw Tomasz Olbryt (Quazarre) – vocals / guitars
Adam Niekrasz (Avernatus) – drums
Marek Tuskowski (Tzar) – bass
Marcus Edvardsson – synthesizers (guest studio appearance)
Others:
Cover Art by Lukasz Kotula.
Logo/Symbol by Christophe Szpajdel.
Band Photos by Diana Sawicka.
Current Lineup:
Przemyslaw Tomasz Olbryt (Quazarre) – vocals / guitars
Adam Niekrasz (Avernatus) – drums
Marek Tuskowski (Tzar) – bass
Hubert Wawrzyniak (Stiggma) – guitars
