Born in 1998 as Antti-Pekka Meronen’s solo ritual, Relicon started as a one-man vision; crafting all hymns and instruments in isolation. After years of skilful honing and devotion, he unleashed two demos in 2002 and 2003, respectively. By 2005 the project had morphed into a five-piece, dropping a third demo and rampaging through live performances. A keyboard sorcerer joined the fray, expanding to six members for their 2008 demo release; but the band shattered soon after, scattering into oblivion. From 2012 to 2017, Relicon slumbered in hiatus, brewing unreleased rituals in the darkness.
The flames reignited in 2024, signing with Wormholedeath. They released Consequences of Disbelief and from the shadowy crypts of Finland’s metal underground, Relicon had once more arisen! Wasting little time after that release, the recording ritual began again, with drummer Mikko Kuhno pounding out the solid backbone, and veteran low-end warrior Tuukka Mauranen delivering the bombarding bass. Antti-Pekka Meronen, the eternal overlord of Relicon’s domain, shreds guitars, conjures keyboards, programs the electronic abyss, and unleashes vocals that range from feral fry screams to haunting whispers. The result? Ephemeral Triumph – A unique and entertaining exploration of various moods and expressions. Heavy enough to headbang to, whilst still immersing the listener within its dreamlike soundscapes.
Forged in founder Antti-Pekka’s unyielding vision, this terrific trinity has created the band’s most experimental expression yet. A gritty four-track that claws at the boundaries of alternative metal, as well as one’s soul. The EP blends crushing riffs with brooding atmospheres, surprising dynamic flips, and even a guest appearance from Tommi Palomäki, who soothes the soul with his saxophone.
Opening track Herstory immediately captures one’s attention with its embracing sound and tonality. It bursts open beautifully; powerful and with purpose. Join the Fray amps up the aggression with chugging guitar riffs and some serious fire on the vocals. The instrumental mind-melter Demise 2, delivers groove-heavy hooks that’ll have your body moving of its own accord. Emergence is the closing track and dives into a more ethereal soundscape — an eerie lullaby of torment that’s unlike any artefact Relicon has constructed before. Lyrically, it delves into inner demons, twisted odysseys, and nightmarish serenades that echo the soul’s deepest pits.
If you’re craving a blend of classic crunch, with the addition of avant-garde elements, give this EP a spin and allow sorrow to sing.
Dwell in Darkness. Live in Light.
-Lunis Voidbright
Stream the EP here –> https://orcd.co/ephtrium
