Mithras.

We are coming clean. This may get a bit cringe. We will try to control ourselves...

But how Mithras weren't a bigger band when they were active we will never know! Every record is like communicating with a gas giant; vast and cavernous, ornate riffs and machine-like drums. The concepts and sound on display are huge, akin to something awaking in a tomb, long undisturbed and now stretching itself into space and time. Damn, we failed. This band is too good!

For all the superlatives, Mithras wrote solid Death Metal. There is a definite structure and pacing, a story to tell and a groove to latch on to. The band themselves are a highly proficient bunch, bandleader Leon Macey worked on all guitars and drum arrangements on all releases to realise his vision for what the Mithras sound should be.

Photo: That’s Heavy!

Trem picked riffs come left and right, reverb soaked for a particularly regal tone. The drums are monolithic and bring to mind Pete Sandoval's metronomic attack. Singer and bassist Rayner Coss has the vocal delivery of a barbarian, deep roaring grit and bellowing in a distinct British accent which is refreshing!

Mithras released four full length albums and a few EPs, some as their early moniker of Imperator. Tracks 'Psyrens' and 'Lords and Masters' showcase the band's legacy for huge sound while 'Under The 3 Spheres' is a blistering sonic assault of technical mastery. New listeners would do well to check out 'Statue On the Island' and 'Time Never Lasts' to start them off.

Mithras might not exist as a full time entity right now, don't let this stop you from getting lost in the void and exploring world's beyond this veil. It's absolutely worth it.