„Protean labyrinth
Of deathly shadows
I am the wanderer
Within Phobetor’s halls“ (‚Maze of Phobetor‚)
On 2024 fourth album „House of the Black Geminus„, oneiric Black Metal entity AKHLYS took listeners on an intensely haunting trip into the heart of darkness. Steeped in symbolism and arcane significance, the album once again reflects the profound immersion of mastermind Naas Alcameth (AORATOS, BESTIA ARCANA, NIGHTBRINGER) in esoteric and mystical traditions.
In collaboration with visual artist Chthonia, AKHLYS proudly unveil a menacing new visual companion for the crushing track ‚Maze of Phobetor‚: Akhlys – Maze of Phobetor (Official video)
Originally conceived as an extension of AKHLYS‚ live rituals, these abyssal visuals have evolved into a powerful standalone work – heightening the atmosphere and deepening the song’s lyrical impact.
Naas Alcameth offers the following reflection: „‚Maze of Phobetor‚ closes out the first act of the album, which is symbolically relegated to the „hearth“. The lyrics reflect a manic and ecstatic state of dread, slowly transforming into a mode of ‚other-becoming‘ within the presence of the numinous. It represents a penultimate moment before the descent into the underworld (the cellar). This is all poetically reflected through symbols such as protean, maze-like hallways, shifting structures, sentient shadows, and an ominous, awaiting door.„
