The Sun of Tiphareth cover

The Sun of Tiphareth

Absu · 1995

43 min · 7 tracks · thrash metal

A whirlwind of complex rhythms and mythic themes, driving thrash metal that weaves tales of ancient legends.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Apzu — Opening the album, this track sets a grandiose tone with its lengthy exploration of mythological themes and complex musical structures, exemplifying the band's signature sound.
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    Feis Mor Tir Na N'og (Across the North Sea to Visnech) — This track features a dynamic interplay between aggressive riffs and melodic passages, illustrating the band's ability to fuse brutality with atmospheric elements while narrating an epic journey.
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    The Sun of Tiphareth — Title track encapsulating the album's thematic essence; it combines relentless percussion with intricate guitar work while delving into ancient lore, making it a highlight for fans seeking depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

The album showcases ambitious compositions and intricate storytelling, solidifying Absu's unique thrash metal sound.

What we noticed

  • Each song incorporates mythological themes, with lyrics that reference ancient legends and stories.
  • The guitar work is characterized by rapid riffs and intricate solos, often layered with harmonized melodies.
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
6/10

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

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • wave-like pacing fluctuations
  • intricate narrative explorations

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 1995, The Sun of Tiphareth is Absu's second full-length album, following their debut, Barathrum: V.I.T.R.I.O.L., from 1993. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their unique blend of thrash metal with elements of mythology and esotericism, establishing a distinctive sound that set them apart in the underground metal scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Demolition Hammer· Sepultura· Annihilator

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Apzu 11:18
  • 2 Feis Mor Tir Na N'og (Across the North Sea to Visnech) 8:05
  • 3 Cyntefyn's Fountain 3:46
  • 4 A Quest Into the 77th Novel 5:48
  • 5 Our Lust for Lunar Plains (Nox Luna Inlustris) 1:49
  • 6 The Coming of War 5:15
  • 7 The Sun of Tiphareth 7:06

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata