About this album
Where they were
Released in 2001, 'Atlantis Ascendant' is Bal-Sagoth's fourth studio album, marking a significant evolution in their sound. Following the critical success of 'Battle Magic' in 1998, the band expanded their orchestral elements while maintaining their signature blend of fantasy themes and aggressive metal.
Why it matters
'Atlantis Ascendant' received acclaim for its ambitious approach to storytelling and composition, positioning Bal-Sagoth as a prominent force within the symphonic black metal scene. The album's intricate sonic landscapes and literary influences have inspired numerous bands in the genre, solidifying its status as a cult classic.
Essential tracks
- "Atlantis Ascendant" โ This title track encapsulates the album's grand themes, combining sweeping orchestration with intense metal riffs, making it a cornerstone of their narrative style.
- "Draconis Albionensis" โ With its dynamic shifts and vivid imagery, this track exemplifies Bal-Sagoth's ability to merge fantasy lore with complex musical arrangements.
- "The Ghosts of Angkor Wat" โ This brief yet impactful track showcases the band's ability to create atmospheric interludes that enhance the overall narrative experience of the album.
- "In Search of the Lost Cities of Antarctica" โ This track combines haunting melodies with powerful lyrics, reflecting the band's thematic exploration of lost civilizations within a metal context.
Release Date
January 1, 2001
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 The Epsilon Exordium 3:36
- 2 Atlantis Ascendant 5:27
- 3 Draconis Albionensis 6:19
- 4 Star-Maps of the Ancient Cosmographers 5:12
- 5 The Ghosts of Angkor Wat 2:22
- 6 The Splendour of a Thousand Swords Gleaming Beneath the Blazon of the Hyperborean Empire, Part III 7:18
- 7 The Dreamer in the Catacombs of Ur 5:16
- 8 In Search of the Lost Cities of Antarctica 5:42
- 9 The Chronicle of Shadows 5:34
- 10 Six Keys to the Onyx Pyramid 2:08
