French progressive death metal visionaries EPITAPHE have now unveiled their highly anticipated third full-length “III” in its entirety, with No Clean Singing hosting the album premiere ahead of its official release on September 11th via Aesthetic Death (CD + LP) and Gurgling Gore (MC).
Following the atmospheric preview offered by “Transient”, the full album reveals the complete scope of EPITAPHE‘s most ambitious work to date. “III” pushes their progressive death metal foundation into darker and increasingly expansive territory, balancing crushing passages with intricate acoustic sections, richly layered arrangements and moments of striking atmosphere.
Stream “III” at THIS LOCATION.
Following the overwhelming acclaim received by “II”, EPITAPHE return with their most ambitious and fully realized work to date. Rather than departing from the artistic path that established the band’s identity, “III” refines, expands and elevates every defining element of its predecessors into a collection of compositions that is both more immersive and more emotionally compelling.
The album pushes the band’s death metal foundation to new extremes, embracing an even harsher, darker and more unforgiving sound without sacrificing the sophistication that has become synonymous with EPITAPHE. Counterbalancing its crushing weight are exquisitely crafted acoustic passages and richly atmospheric interludes that paint vivid sonic landscapes. Once again, at times the distinctive voice of the saxophone plays a central role, adding remarkable depth, warmth and color while further reinforcing the band’s unmistakable musical identity.
Rather than relying on a predictable contrast between moments of aggression and restraint, “III” unfolds with an organic, narrative flow, allowing each composition to evolve naturally and reveal new layers over repeated listens. Every transition serves a purpose, every melody contributes to the wider emotional arc, and every arrangement reflects a meticulous attention to detail. The result is an album of exceptional scope and cohesion, confirming EPITAPHE as one of the most artistically significant acts in today’s extreme metal landscape.
“III” was recorded by James Leonard at Mémoire Mécanique Studio and Pentachrome Wave Studio, before being mixed by James Leonard and mastered by Greg Chandler at Priory Recording Studios. The album artwork features “Spring Frost”, a striking painting by acclaimed Finnish artist Petri Ala-Maunus, perfectly complementing the record’s immersive atmosphere and profound sense of scale.
Tracklist:
01. Half-Light
02. Windswept
03. Spring Frost
04. Transient
05. Liminal
Line-up:
PB: Vocals, Saxophone
AG: Drums, Percussion
LB: Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Fretless Bass, Keyboards & Effects
Music by EPITAPHE
Lyrics by LB
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