Inspired at once by the grandiosity of film scores and classical music, the bleakness of black metal, and minimalist ambient music, Hypogeum is dark and at times ritualistic with its themes and complimentary visuals touching upon the rise, betrayal, and ultimate fall of messiah-like figures and cult leaders. A truly enigmatic sound journey both sonically and visually, the record is named in honor of The Hypogeum of Hal Saflieni, a Neolithic subterranean structure in Paola, Malta. Believed to be the oldest prehistoric underground temple in the world, The Hypogeum is cloaked in mystery, from the discovery of elongated skulls to tales of paranormal phenomena. It's widely understood that the Hypogeum was originally used as a sanctuary, possibly for an oracle. It is for this reason that a unique chamber carved out of solid limestone and demonstrating incredible acoustic properties has been called "The Oracle Chamber." Hypogeum was captured at the infamous GodCity Recording Studio in Salem, Massachusetts with producer Zach Weeks using Dave Smith Instruments OB-6, Moog Grandmother, Korg MS20, Mellotron, Yamaha CS-80 and Yamaha DX7 plugins, upright piano, guitar, bass, lap steel guitar, drums, various drum programming software and a selection of guitar effects pedals. Hypogeum will be released digitally and on limited edition vinyl on August 14th via Repose Records. Fans of Tangerine Dream, Coil, Sunn O))), and Vangelis pay heed.
