This EP was created through a collaboration between Belgian artists Nicolas Van Meirhaeghe (Empusae) and Mattias Van Hulle (Pilgrimage to Pleroma).

Inspired by esoteric themes, they crafted three immersive tracks that steadily evolve toward a climactic point. Dark, humming undertones are now blended with sacred-like chants, while rousing percussion leads the listener toward an almost transcendental sensation. Industrial sounds rise to the surface, creating a disturbing effect within the dark atmosphere. The paradox of this experience is that it also evokes a sense of prosperity.

This is undoubtedly a successful collaboration between two artists who seem to understand and complement each other perfectly. Hopefully, they will continue to explore this shared vision in future works. (Rating:8).

Listen to “Opening Of The Strings”:

About Empusae & Pilgrimage To Pleroma

Empusae is the solo project of Belgian musician Nicolas Van Meirhaeghe, also known as Sal-Ocin, active for more than two decades. His album “Iter In Tenebris”, released by Consouling Sounds in 2019, built a concept around four demons as a continuation of the personal themes he first explored on “Lueur”. In a 2020 Side-Line interview, Van Meirhaeghe described the project as “using Empusae as personal therapy”. Pilgrimage to Pleroma is the parallel project of fellow Belgian musician Mattias Van Hulle. “Hidden Segment” is their first joint EP, released by Cyclic Law.

Inferno Sound Diaries

I have been working for over 30 years with Side-line as the main reviewer. My taste is eclectic, uncoventional and I prefer to look for the pearls, even if the bands are completely unknown, thus staying loyal to the Side-Line philosophy of nurturing new talents.

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