Diadem of 12 Stars

Where they were

Released in 2006, 'Diadem of 12 Stars' is Wolves in the Throne Room's debut album, marking their entry into the atmospheric black metal scene. This project established their signature blend of raw aggression and serene ambiance, setting the stage for their subsequent evolution.

Why it matters

'Diadem of 12 Stars' received critical acclaim and significantly influenced the modern black metal landscape, inspiring a wave of organic and nature-themed metal acts. It helped popularize the subgenre known as Cascadian black metal, aligning with ecological themes and a DIY ethic that resonated within underground music circles.

Essential tracks

• "Queen of the Borrowed Light" — This track opens the album with a sprawling arrangement, blending haunting melodies and intense blast beats, encapsulating the band's atmospheric ethos.
• "Face in a Night Time Mirror, Part 1" — The first part of this two-part epic showcases a hypnotic build-up that immerses listeners in its expansive sound world, emphasizing the album's cinematic quality.
• "(A Shimmering Radiance) Diadem of 12 Stars" — Spanning over twenty minutes, this closing track serves as a grand culmination of the album's thematic and musical exploration, leaving listeners with a profound sense of introspection.