The Ophidian Wheel cover

The Ophidian Wheel

Septicflesh · 1997

69 min · 14 tracks · black metal · melodic death metal · symphonic metal

A haunting blend of symphonic melodies and brutal death metal, creating a dark, atmospheric soundscape.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dark atmospheric soundscapes
  • wave-like pacing with peaks
  • immersive two-halves listening experience
  • haunting melodies for introspection
  • dynamic progression with intensity

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer short standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1997, 'The Ophidian Wheel' was Septicflesh's third studio album, following their 1994 breakthrough 'Esoptron'. At this point, the band was solidifying its identity within the extreme metal scene, incorporating orchestral elements that would distinguish them from their peers.
Stylistic neighbors
Fleshgod Apocalypse· Dimmu Borgir· Behemoth

Tracklist

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

  • 1 The Future Belongs to the Brave 6:11
  • 2 The Ophidian Wheel 5:18
  • 3 Phallic Litanies 5:53
  • 4 Razor Blades of Guilt 5:00
  • 5 Tartarus 3:35
  • 6 On the Topmost Step of the Earth 6:41
  • 7 Microcosmos 1:33
  • 8 Geometry in Static 5:23
  • 9 Shamanic Rite 5:16
  • 10 Heaven Below 5:42
  • 11 Enchantment 0:50
  • 12 The Ophidian Wheel (unreleased mix) 5:17
  • 13 Phallic Litanies (unreleased mix) 5:53
  • 14 On the Topmost Step of the Earth (unreleased mix) 6:39

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata