The Oracle - Hypogeum (2020)

Inspired at once by the grandiosity of film scores and classical music, the bleakness of black metal, and minimalist ambient music, Hypogeum is dark and at times ritualistic with its themes and complimentary visuals touching upon the rise, betrayal, and ultimate fall of messiah-like figures and cult leaders.

A truly enigmatic sound journey both sonically and visually, the record is named in honor of The Hypogeum of Ħal Saflieni, a Neolithic subterranean structure in Paola, Malta. Believed to be the oldest prehistoric underground temple in the world, The Hypogeum is cloaked in mystery, from the discovery of elongated skulls to tales of paranormal phenomena. It’s widely understood that the Hypogeum was originally used as a sanctuary, possibly for an oracle. It is for this reason that a unique chamber carved out of solid limestone and demonstrating incredible acoustic properties has been called “The Oracle Chamber.”