Band:	Melechesh
Album:	Sphynx
Style:	Melodic black metal, Oriental folk metal
Release date:	2003
A review by:	Dream Taster

01. Of Mercury And Mercury
02. Secrets Of Sumerian Sphynxology
03. Annunaki's Golden Thrones
04. Apkallu Counsel
05. Tablets Of Fate
06. Triangular Tattvic Fire
07. The Arrival Ritual
08. Incendium Between Mirage And Time
09. Purifier Of The Stars
10. Caravans To Ur

Ever wondered what were our common fathers listening to? Well, one band took the burden to wonder and they came up with something intriguing: Mesopotamian Metal! The Israel-based combo Melechesh worked hard to bring Mesopotamia and Sumeria back to life through their latest effort, "Sphynx". Ashmedi [guitars, lead vocals], Moloch [guitars], Al'Hazred [bass, vocals] and Proscriptor [drums, percussions, vocals] are back in full force with a savvy blend of Black Metal and long gone Eastern Folk, prepare thyself for something rare and rich.

First things first, this CD has the complete set of lyrics, explanations, profiles and ideas behind the songs [it's a enhanced media CD], pushing things as to include a glossary of Sumerian and Mesopotamian terms, making "Sphynx" a real encyclopedia on the subject. This observation is also true for their music since they used unknown instruments such as daff, riqq, darbukka [all percussions] and saz [stringed instrument] making this album unique. They even include tabs and drumming patterns used on this album to make you understand. That's what a call a hell of a concept album! However, the main component of their music is still terrific Death/Black Metal and the mix is really savory.

The melodies on "Sphynx" sound traditional but they create a force to which you can't help headbanging all the time. Take the opening track for example, 'Of Mercury And Mercury': it's pure blast from A to Z but somehow the band manages to create this catchy melody all along. While the two first songs are more Death Metal material, 'Annunakis Golden Thrones' introduces Black Metal with fury but still keeping this melodic lines that transforms "Sphynx" into a pure jewel. Other highlights are 'Triangular Tattvic Fire' and 'Incendium Between Mirage And Time' with their even catchier/headbanging choruses.

Recorded at Los Angered Studios in Gothenburg, Sweden, produced and engineered by Andy LaRocque, the production is simply brilliant. The enigmatic artwork by Ron Woodall is also a delight for the eyes.

"Sphynx" is an instant classic. It takes Black Metal to another level. It's unique, powerful, and above all clever. Their label, Osmose Productions, can be proud to hold one of the most talented bands out there right now. But let's give the last word to Melechesh themselves: "Words cannot explain music; an individual feels music in his/her very own spine, but only listens with a tired ear to what one has to say about it. Better listening to the damn album that reading about it." [excerpt from the article "Mesopotamian Metal"]