Behölder’s Epic Debut: In the Temple of the Tyrant

Little of my adult life has held up to the joy I felt initially getting into fantasy as a child — from reading Forgotten Realms paperbacks to rolling a twenty-sided die for the first time, the genre has always been a comfort of mine in every form. Heavy metal has drawn from the genre since its infancy for inspiration, and although it can be a cliché, unabashedly embracing what you love is never a recipe for disappointment. So it goes for Behölder, a US epic doom metal group whose debut album In the Temple of the Tyrant captures a pure love for the genre as well as everything it offers. While the album is epic doom metal that keeps the tension high and often turns sinister, there’s evident delight throughout — both for the musical genre and for their fantasy inspirations.

Musical Composition and Themes

From a somewhat meta recounting of a D&D session to exploring a classic character from Dragonlance, Behölder’s fantasy chops brook no debate – and things are similar on the music side. There’s a good amount of Sabbathian groove packed in alongside larger-scale, melodic progressions and grand designs, building out a doomy atmosphere while keeping the overall energy up and offering lots of traditional metal appeal as well. Vocalist John Yelland (Judicator) can be majestic, imperious, or downright wicked as needed, providing steely lyricism on top of the band’s classic dual-guitar heavy metal. Whether you’re seeking to nerd out or get some great riffs, In the Temple of the Tyrant is the correct destination.

Track-by-Track Breakdown

Since the record is out today, we got the band to tell us some more about each of the songs on the record.

A Pale Blood Sky

Haunted by disturbing visions and dreams, an aspiring adventurer seeks to unravel the mystery behind a series of gruesome, ritualistic murders plaguing the city. Discovering an ancient passage through a foreboding temple, his investigation leads him into the catacombs, where the truth behind his nightmarish dreams is unearthed. Yet he is powerless to stop what is coming, or his own demise.

Dungeon Crawl

A nostalgic homage to the very game itself and all those who’ve played it throughout the years. Told from three distinct perspectives, the Dungeon Master warns an eager party of heroes what dangers await and what rewards can be theirs should they survive. The adventure party accepts the challenge with rousing battle hymns, and finally, we glimpse into the real world of those gathered around the map rolling dice as their characters seek glory and riches while avoiding death.

Into the Underdark

For eons, tales of the terrifying and alien subterranean realm known as “The Underdark” have served as cautionary warnings to surface dwellers. When an old map promising untold riches and a legendary artifact is discovered, a grizzled group of veteran heroes risks it all on one final heist, uncertain if they will ever return or see the sun again.

Eyes of the Deep

The Lovecraftian style mystery and horror began in “A Pale Blood Sky” continues. An old but still powerful man, hardened by many battles and wars throughout his life, learns of his only son’s disappearance and fears the worst. Picking up on the trail of clues left to him, he infiltrates the temple where his son was last seen entering, determined to kill any who would dare stop him from learning the truth and ultimately issuing a one-on-one death challenge to the monstrous abomination the cult worships.

For Those Who Fell

A lone warrior walks among the aftermath of a great battlefield, his heart filled with sorrow and respect for the bravery of those who died, including his supposed enemies. Finding one he himself had slain clutching a personal letter in his final moments, the tragic cost of war haunts him as he vows to honor their memory by taking on the burden of informing his family about their loved ones’ valor and sacrifice.

Draconian (Slave or Master)

A merciless warlord leads a life of conquest, conducting brutal nighttime raids upon helpless villages seeking plunder and captives as trophies. The harsh reality that he, too, is a slave is not lost on him, that his identity and freedom were lost long ago, indoctrinated to serve and even worship his own tyrannical lord. The lines between being either a slave or master in a relentless cycle blur, mixed with the bloodshed and domination that define his existence.

Summoned & Bound

A dark ritual, fraught with immense danger, offers the chance to attain power and knowledge long forbidden to mortals. Summoning and binding an entity from the dark planes of existence requires great sacrifice and precision—for the slightest error can bring a fate worse than death. A young mage deems the risk worth it and sets out to battle the will of an infernal being older than the world itself in pursuit of ultimate mastery.

I Magus

For over four decades and well over a dozen novels, Raistlin Majere has proven to be one of the greatest and most fascinating characters in fantasy literature. An anti-hero of sorts, only a small part of his life and story arc is told here, from his humble beginnings as a frail, sickly child with incredible intellect and an unparalleled gift for magic growing ever stronger within him. The depths of his selfish and evil deeds balance against the numerous selfless acts of compassion and sacrifice, painting a complex and tragic figure, one who’s relentless drive for power and recognition pushes the heights of his ambition to challenge the gods themselves.

Conclusion

In the Temple of the Tyrant is not just an album; it’s an immersive experience that merges heavy metal with rich fantasy narratives. Behölder has crafted a work that resonates with both metal enthusiasts and fantasy fans alike, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre. The album, released today via Black Lion Records, promises to enchant listeners with its storytelling and musicianship.

FAQs

What genre does Behölder’s music belong to?

Behölder primarily plays epic doom metal, incorporating elements of traditional heavy metal.

When was In the Temple of the Tyrant released?

The album was released on [insert release date here].

What are some themes explored in the album?

The album explores themes of fantasy, adventure, loss, and the complexities of power and morality.

Who is the vocalist of Behölder?

The vocalist for Behölder is John Yelland, known for his work in Judicator.

Where can I listen to In the Temple of the Tyrant?

The album is available on various streaming platforms and can be purchased through music retailers.