Three years after the release of their self-titled debut EP, the French atmospheric Black Metal band BACCHUS unleash their first album. “II” delivers six dense and intoxicating tracks, allowing the listener to become immersed in swirling psychedelic soundscapes.
The new long-player is officially released and can be listened to via Bandcamp or on the label’s YouTube channel:
Drummer Camille Olivier F.B. narrates the creative ideas behind “II“:
“With BACCHUS, we had the intention of experimenting musically and deliver something new and different than the usual and standardized Metal compositions. The focus on synthesizers and on creating a specific atmosphere was actually at the beginning of the creative process from which the band was born. On the album, one can find different vibes and emotions. This happened naturally as we did not consciously decide to craft especially dark or joyful music. The songs simply ‘happened’ during the compositional process. This also reflects our vision concerning the music: our Art must not be dreary. It is oscillating between the high and the low, as if you are experiencing a really bad trip!“
The psychedelic music of BACCHUS has received high praise in the Metal press. “II” was specifically recommended by Metal Hammer in their column “5 Brilliant New Bands You Need To Check“:
“Continually teetering on the precipice of an arcane drone ritual led by an inebriated ringmaster, BACCHUS are battering down the doors of perception on a one-way head trip to the truth.“
Furthermore:
“As you lose yourself in the anthemic mysteries and atmospheric magic it becomes clear just how special BACCHUS are and why we should never let go of their creation.” (Two Guys Metal)
“This is music to drown in. It seems to be the goal of the band to transport the listener into extraordinary soundscapes and spheres – and this works really well!” (Legacy)
“II” is officially released on CD, vinyl, tape and digitally via Debemur Morti Productions, band merch will be available to accompany the release. Orders are possible via the label’s EU, US (no merch) and Bandcamp shops.
BACCHUS is a project formed by Moïse Mestriaux and Sébastien B. (DYSYLUMN, ABYSSAL VACUUM, OMINOUS SHRINE) with the objective of experimenting with songwriting using electric guitars and bass over a synthesizer base in early 2020. Camille Olivier F.B. (DYSYLUMN, Y I Y) quickly joined the project behind the drums and was then put in charge of sound engineering and production.
Initially inspired by bands like RHINOCERVS, RINGARË, FLUISTERAARS, URFAUST or BLUT AUS NORD, BACCHUS officiates in an atmospheric Black Metal with dark, cavernous and monolithic parts sparingly integrated. It’s a deep, melancholic and dreamlike journey that explores the decadence of Roman mythology.
A first self-titled EP was released at the end of 2020. The debut album is released via Debemur Morti Productions in 2023.