Paracletus cover

Paracletus

Deathspell Omega · 2010

42 min · 10 tracks · black metal

A labyrinthine blend of dissonance and eerie melodies, plunging into the depths of existential despair and philosophical inquiry.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Wings of Predation — This track exemplifies the band's signature blend of aggression and atmosphere, showcasing complex time signatures alongside haunting melodies that encapsulate the album's overarching themes.
  • →
    Phosphene — With its densely layered instrumentation and philosophical inquiries into perception and reality, this track is a prime example of Deathspell Omega's unique approach to lyrical depth within black metal.
  • →
    Apokatastasis Pantôn — The closing track encapsulates the album’s thematic exploration of restoration and redemption, offering an unsettling yet profound resolution through its expansive soundscape.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

79 /100
Summit
Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

Paracletus showcases intricate compositions and a unique sound that stands out in the black metal genre.

What we noticed

  • Dissonant guitar riffs intertwine with melodic passages, often shifting abruptly to maintain tension and unpredictability.
  • Vocals are delivered in a harsh style that complements the chaotic instrumentation, often layered to enhance the sense of unease.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
9/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
9/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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 emotional journeys
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • gradual builds and payoffs
  • atmospheric background focus

Where this album fits

Career context
Released on January 1, 2010, Paracletus is Deathspell Omega's fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed record, Fas – Ite, Maledicti, in Ignem Aeternum. At this point in their career, the band had established themselves as pioneers of avant-garde black metal, known for their complex compositions and esoteric themes that challenge conventional metal norms.
Stylistic neighbors
Leviathan· Blut Aus Nord· Imperial Triumphant

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Have You Beheld the Fevers?

    The moment shifts from a contemplative tone to a stark confrontation with existential dread, articulating a direct challenge to the listener's understanding of…

    This abrupt change not only intensifies the emotional weight but also highlights the duality between introspection and outward confrontation present throughout the album.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Epiklesis I 1:41
  • 2 Wings of Predation 3:40
  • 3 Abscission 6:02
  • 4 Dearth 3:44
  • 5 Phosphene 6:58
  • 6 Epiklesis II 3:03
  • 7 Malconfort 4:54
  • 8 Have You Beheld the Fevers? 2:57
  • 9 Devouring Famine 5:06
  • 10 Apokatastasis Pantôn 4:03

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata