Aghast
Hexerei Im Zwielicht Der Finsternis

THE REVIEW

The dark-ambient project Aghast was born from the collaboration between two Norwegian femme fatales, Nebelexe (Andrea Meyer/Haugen) and Nacht (Tania Stene) in 1994, to give birth to only this "Hexerei im Zwielicht der Finsternis", released the following year and ignored by most.

The malice of the final result should not be too surprising, as the two signatories of the witchy pact were very much linked to the then-burgeoning black metal scene: Andrea and Tania were, respectively, the partners of Samoth (guitarist of Emperor) and Fenriz (renowned drummer of Darkthrone), whom I don't know about you, but personally, I would decline a dinner invitation from them (since the dinner might be me).

The very logo "Aghast" that appears on the cover recalls a font style that is very popular among bands of this movement.

But, enough with the gossip, let's get to the album, composed of eight sinister episodes, which together constitute a singular, dangerous journey.

The music is composed of a sound fabric that sketches vague and distant landscapes, over which two cruel women ramble their curses as if in a state of trance.

Ancient specters of witches burned at the stake swear eternal vengeance, chuckle while casting deadly spells on me who, foolishly, listen.

They lament their grudge in "Call from the Grave", claim my soul in "Sacrifice", revel in their own wickedness in "Das Irrlicht".

Sinister noises from the top of snowy mountains, diabolical rituals under the full moon.

I see black shapes in the distance, which inexplicably point their fingers at me, someone from beyond whispers my name, haunting footsteps resound in the night.

Darkness surrounds me, a thick fog prevents me from seeing any source of light.

The torment shows no sign of ending, and I cannot even explain why all this is happening.

My mind is now free from any vain hope.

My skin loses color, my body is shrouded by shivers of fear.

I tremble and wait for my fate to unfold while the darkness carries me away.