The Ethereal Mirror cover

The Ethereal Mirror

Cathedral · 1993

65 min · 12 tracks · doom metal

A dense tapestry of haunting melodies and crushing riffs, steeped in atmospheric doom metal.

Why this album works

'The Ethereal Mirror' is notable for its critical acclaim, with many reviewers highlighting its innovative approach to doom metal. The album's success helped cement Cathedral's reputation as pioneers of the genre, influencing numerous bands that followed. It has been frequently cited in discussions about essential doom metal records of the early '90s.
Best for
long, immersive listening sessions dynamic emotional journeys atmospheric background focus
Context
Released in January 1993, 'The Ethereal Mirror' is Cathedral's third studio album, following their acclaimed record 'The Carnival Bizarre.' At this point in their career, the band was refining their sound, moving deeper into atmospheric elements while maintaining their heavy doom roots. This album marked a significant moment as they began to gain wider recognition within the metal community.
Stylistic neighbors
Paradise Lost· Conan· Witchcraft

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Violet Vortex (intro) 1:54
  • 2 Ride Standout 4:47
  • 3 Enter the Worms 6:05
  • 4 Midnight Mountain 4:55
  • 5 Fountain of Innocence Standout 7:13
  • 6 Grim Luxuria Standout 4:46
  • 7 Jaded Entity 7:53
  • 8 Ashes You Leave 6:22
  • 9 Phantasmagoria 8:44
  • 10 Imprisoned in Flesh 1:47
  • 11 Sky Lifter 3:27
  • 12 A Funeral Request (new version 1993) 7:37

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata