Lucifer Rising
Candlemass · 2008
71 min · 12 tracks · epic doom metal
A dark, atmospheric journey through epic doom metal, blending haunting melodies with crushing riffs and lyrical themes of despair.
Top tracks — play these first
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Lucifer Rising Start here — The title track sets the tone for the album with its slow, foreboding build, encapsulating the core themes of darkness and despair that permeate throughout.
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Emperor of the Void — This track features powerful riffs and a dynamic structure that showcases Lowe's vocal range while delivering a narrative steeped in ominous imagery.
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At the Gallows End — A reimagining of one of their classic tracks, this version highlights the band's ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary production techniques, appealing to both old fans and newcomers.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP showcases strong songwriting and production, creating a cohesive and atmospheric experience in epic doom metal.
What we noticed
- The first track sets a slow, heavy pace with layered guitar riffs and deep vocals, establishing a dark atmosphere.
- Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections that build tension before returning to the main themes.
- Lyrical themes of despair are consistently explored across all tracks, enhancing the overall mood of the EP.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- dynamic progression with peaks
- haunting melodies for deep reflection
- long tracks for immersive experience
- epic soundscapes for solitude
- wave-like pacing encourages engagement
Maybe skip if you
- seeking quick, upbeat tracks
- prefer short and punchy songs
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Marks a strong return after a hiatus, showcasing the band's enduring sound.
- Themes
- darkness and despair· ominous imagery· gothic narratives
- Career context
- Released in 2008, Lucifer Rising marks Candlemass's return after a five-year hiatus since their previous album, 2003's Candlemass. This album features new vocalist Robert Lowe, signaling a fresh chapter for the band as they sought to reinvigorate their classic sound while maintaining their heavy doom metal roots.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Solitude Aeturnus· My Dying Bride· Paradise Lost
Tracklist
- 1 Lucifer Rising Start here 4:06
- 2 White God 5:01
- 3 Demons Gate 9:03
- 4 At the Gallows End 5:17
- 5 Solitude 6:54
- 6 Emperor of the Void 4:53
- 7 Devil Seed 6:02
- 8 Mirror Mirror 6:04
- 9 Under the Oak 7:01
- 10 Of Stars and Smoke 5:51
- 11 Black Dwarf 5:30
- 12 Samarithan 5:52
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
The Angel and the Dark River
My Dying Bride
Shares a similar atmospheric heaviness with gothic themes of despair and loss.
Gothic
Paradise Lost
Explores dark, melancholic melodies with a blend of doom and gothic imagery.
Ghosts of Loss
Swallow the Sun
Features haunting melodies and lyrical themes of darkness and emotional turmoil.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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