Ελληνικά
Genre: Black Metal
Country: Greece
Label: Transcending Obscurity Records
Year: 2026
Athens-based Decipher return with a new album following their promising 2023 debut, “Arcane Paths of Resurrection.” On their latest opus, titled “Θέλημα”, several elements remain beautifully consistent with its predecessor. The cover artwork is once again crafted by Artem Grigoryev, while the production—though noticeably improved—operates within similar standards. The album features seven compositions (one can’t help but suspect a certain symbolism behind that number), and it is once more released through India’s Transcending Obscurity Records, a label that has issued numerous albums by Greek acts such as Abyssus, Cerebrum, and Burial Hordes.
Moving from what has remained the same to what has evolved, it is precisely these changes that elevate “Θέλημα”,” into a truly outstanding release—one that pushes the band to a higher level. The songwriting feels more mature and, crucially, more accessible and memorable. Without sacrificing the atmosphere and darkness that define Decipher’s sound, the tracks now possess a musicality and flow that few bands today can genuinely deliver.
Take “Hail Death,” the album’s longest track, and you’ll understand exactly what this means. Blistering speeds give way to slow, torturous passages adorned with eerie melodies. These are epic compositions with a clear beginning, middle, and end—self-contained horror tales that captivate from start to finish.
Beyond the aforementioned highlight, exceptional moments abound in “Towards Renaissance” (arguably the album’s finest cut) and “The Black March.” Now streamlined from a five-piece to a trio, the band has toured extensively, and combined with the members’ parallel involvement or past tenure in acts such as Lucifers Child, Vodka Juniors, Abyssus, and Desposphorus, Decipher have developed the poise and confidence of a major band.
“Θέλημα” stands as a remarkable record—one that every Black Metal devotee should give a chance to. Chances are, they won’t be disappointed.
