The Meads Of Asphodel

In the world of metal there are a few leaders, many followers, but then a few that aren't quite either -- bands that don't forge new trails so much as meander down their own unique paths, on their own terms. Such is the case of The Meads Of Asphodel, an odd but strangely compelling British outfit that in many respects simply defies description. The band was formed by vocalist/leader Metatron in 1998, and he, along with instrumentalist Jaldabaoth, formed the core of the band. They are often categorized as black metal (they have referred to themselves as "English Fucking Black Metal", though this is due more to spirit than to musical style), and at times their black roots are revealed, but they bear little similarity to the classic black metal style. The band has had close ties with space rock legends Hawkwind for some time, to the extent that Alan Davey and Huw Lloyd Langton are essentially full-time members here now, and Mirai from Sigh has lent his hand to the proceedings as well (another indication of the offbeat nature of this band). This is really one of those bands that one has to hear for him/herself, as they are clearly operating in their own world. Metatron and Jaldaboath split up several years ago, with Metatron carrying on here and Jaldaboath returning to his equally bizarre and interesting Ewigkeit project.

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Discography

Studio Compilation

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