About this album
Where they were
Released in January 1993, 'The Ethereal Mirror' is Cathedral's third studio album, following their acclaimed record 'The Carnival Bizarre.' At this point in their career, the band was refining their sound, moving deeper into atmospheric elements while maintaining their heavy doom roots. This album marked a significant moment as they began to gain wider recognition within the metal community.
Why it matters
'The Ethereal Mirror' is notable for its critical acclaim, with many reviewers highlighting its innovative approach to doom metal. The album's success helped cement Cathedral's reputation as pioneers of the genre, influencing numerous bands that followed. It has been frequently cited in discussions about essential doom metal records of the early '90s.
Essential tracks
- "Ride" — This track encapsulates the album's balance of melody and heaviness, showcasing Cathedral's ability to fuse dark themes with captivating hooks.
- "Fountain of Innocence" — With its sprawling length and intricate composition, this track exemplifies the band's atmospheric depth and lyrical complexity.
- "Grim Luxuria" — This song stands out for its relentless intensity and evocative imagery, representing the darker side of their lyrical exploration.
Release Date
January 1, 1993
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Violet Vortex (intro) 1:54
- 2 Ride 4:47
- 3 Enter the Worms 6:05
- 4 Midnight Mountain 4:55
- 5 Fountain of Innocence 7:13
- 6 Grim Luxuria 4:46
- 7 Jaded Entity 7:53
- 8 Ashes You Leave 6:22
- 9 Phantasmagoria 8:44
- 10 Imprisoned in Flesh 1:47
- 11 Sky Lifter 3:27
- 12 A Funeral Request (new version 1993) 7:37