About this album
Where they were
Released in 2005, 'The Garden of Unearthly Delights' marked Cathedral's seventh studio album during a period of artistic exploration. Following their 2002 album 'The VIIth Crusade', this release showcased a shift towards more expansive compositions and lyrical depth, reflecting the band's evolution within the doom metal genre.
Why it matters
'The Garden of Unearthly Delights' received positive critical acclaim, particularly for its ambitious title track which spans nearly half an hour. The album solidified Cathedral's reputation in the doom metal scene and demonstrated their ability to innovate while maintaining the genre's core elements.
Essential tracks
- "North Berwick Witch Trials" — This track combines historical narrative with heavy riffs, illustrating the band's knack for storytelling within their music.
- "The Garden" — At 26 minutes long, this epic piece encapsulates the album's thematic essence and showcases Cathedral's progressive approach to songwriting.
- "Upon Azrael's Wings" — This song blends melodic elements with crushing heaviness, representing the duality present throughout the album.
Release Date
January 1, 2005
Artist Origin
United Kingdom
Tracklist
- 1 Dearth AD 1:00
- 2 Tree of Life & Death 4:35
- 3 North Berwick Witch Trials 5:58
- 4 Upon Azrael's Wings 5:37
- 5 Corpsecycle 5:54
- 6 Fields of Zagara 1:58
- 7 Oro the Manslayer 7:29
- 8 Beneath a Funereal Sun 5:20
- 9 The Garden 26:58
- 10 Proga-Europa 6:00