Labyrinth cover

Labyrinth

Fleshgod Apocalypse · 2013

54 min · 11 tracks · symphonic metal

Orchestral grandeur intertwines with relentless technicality, creating a darkly cinematic atmosphere that pushes the boundaries of metal.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Minotaur (The Wrath of Poseidon) — This track features intricate rhythms and lush orchestration that exemplify the band's signature sound, merging brutality with melodic sophistication.
  • →
    The Fall of Asterion — With its narrative depth and dynamic shifts between orchestral passages and heavy riffs, this track encapsulates the thematic essence of the album.
  • →
    Labyrinth — As the title track, it serves as a culmination of the album's motifs, combining haunting melodies with relentless aggression to create an unforgettable experience.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

Labyrinth showcases ambitious orchestration and complex arrangements, solidifying its place in symphonic metal.

What we noticed

  • Several tracks incorporate operatic vocals alongside growled sections, blending melodic and harsh elements in a unique manner.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • immersive sonic storytelling experience
  • epic soundscapes for concentration
  • cathartic release through intensity
  • dark themes for reflective moods

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer light and upbeat sounds
  • seek quick, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 2013, Labyrinth is Fleshgod Apocalypse's third studio album, following their breakthrough effort, Agony. This album solidified their reputation for blending symphonic elements with brutal death metal, showcasing their evolution as musicians and composers.
Stylistic neighbors
Dimmu Borgir· Epica· Nightwish

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Kingborn 6:06
  • 2 Minotaur (The Wrath of Poseidon) 5:10
  • 3 Elegy 4:18
  • 4 Towards the Sun 5:42
  • 5 Warpledge 4:32
  • 6 Pathfinder 5:11
  • 7 The Fall of Asterion 4:39
  • 8 Prologue 1:07
  • 9 Epilogue 5:44
  • 10 Under Black Sails 7:26
  • 11 Labyrinth 4:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata