"THE SUN OF TIPHARETH" 30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR - ADDITIONAL DATES ADDED

ABSU has added additional tour dates for their "The Sun of Tiphareth" 30th Annivesary Tour with Zemial. The dates are as follows:

May 16 – Steelfest Open Air - Hyvinkää, Finland
May 22 – Pereira, Colombia
May 23 – Medellin, Colombia
May 24 – Bogotá, Colombia
May 25 – Quito, Ecuador
May 27 – Lima, Peru
May 29 – Buenos Aires, Argentina
May 30 – Santiago, Chile
May 31 – Fortaleza, Brazil
June 1 – Sao Paulo, Brazil
June 5 – Mystic Festival - Gdansk, Poland
June 20 – Nada Fest - Beja, Portugal
June 21 – Houses of the Holy - Abetnau, Austria
July 25 – Destroying Texas Fest - Houston, TX
August 1 – Beyond The Gates - Bergen, Norway
August 7 – Brutal Assault - Josefov, Czech Republic
August 8 – Alcatraz Festival - Kortrijk, Belgium
September 6 – Candelabrum Metal Fest - Leon, Mexico
September 21 – Cosmic Void Festival - London, UK
October 4 – Metal Threat Fedstival - Elgin, IL
November 27–29 – Abyss Festival - Gothenburg, Sweden
November 28–29 –Nuclear Winter Festival - Hirschaid, Germany
December 12–13 – Eindhoven Metal Meeting - Eindhoven, Netherlands

ABSU RECRUITS BACKING VOCALIST FOR UPCOMING HELL’S HEROES APPEARANCE

Mythological occult metal act & Agonia Records recording act ABSU (featuring ZEMIAL) will be joined by backing vocalist Adrianna Cabrera for Hell’s Heroes VII Festival in Houston, Texas on March 21, 2025. Her live appearance will be the first time the band has incorporated a female vocalist to replicate the lines/narrations originally implemented on “The Sun of Tiphareth” released in 1995.

Proscriptor remarks: “We warmly welcome Adrianna in joining us on stage to commemorate the 30th anniversary of ABSU’s second album, as it is our intention to translate the studio recording to a live atmosphere as close as possible. This will most likely be the only time this will ever occur.”

Additional/confirmed dates for 2025:

April 10 – IT Roma – Traffic Live Club
April 11 – IT Bologna – Alchemica Club
April 12 – IT Paderno Dugnano – Slaughter Club
April 20 – DE Munich – Dark Easter Metal Meeting
May 16 – FI Hyvinkaa – Steelfest Open Air
June 5 – PL Gdansk – Mystic Festival
June 20 – PT Beja – NADA Festival
June 21 – AT Abtenau – Houses Of The Holy
August 1 – NO Bergen – Beyond The Gates
August 7 – CZ Josefov – Brutal Assault
August 8 – BE Kortrijk – Alcatraz Festival
September 6–7 – MX Leon, Guanajuato – Candelabrum Metal Fest
September 21 – UK London – Cosmic Void Festival

OSMOSE PRODUCTIONS TO RELEASE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF "THE SUN OF TIPHARETH"

Osmose Productions is proud to announce the re–release of Absu’s sophomore achievement The Sun of Tiphareth – 30th Anniversary Edition.

Supplying the original DAT tape by Proscriptor himself, this majestic edition of cult, mid–90’s mythological occult metal has been newly mastered for LP & CD. Proscriptor quotes in regards to the new master’s sound: “Now, the entire album is nothing more than spellbinding and bludgeoning, as our second full–length conquest has never sounded ANY better!” The companion album features an alternate 2012 stereo mix from the original recordings, which presents the album within a broader, dynamic spectrum.

This special edition Double LP and Double CD includes extensive liner notes, artwork and a comprehensive essay regarding Absu’s logo evolution. The special Gatefold LP includes two full–color posters.

RELEASE DATE: MARCH 28, 2025
Available To Order Here.

TRACKLISTING
[CD I: Original 1995 Studio Album]
[Re-Mastered version 2025]

1. Apzu [11:17]
2. Feis Mor Tir Na N’Og (Across The North Sea To Visnech) [8:04]
3. Cyntefyn’s Fountain [3:46]
4. A Quest Into The 77th Novel [5:48]
5. Our Lust for Lunar Plains (Nox Luna Inlustris) [1:49]
6. The Coming Of War [5:15]
7. The Sun Of Tiphareth [7:10]

[CD II: Companion Album]
[Re-Mastered version 2025]

1. Cyntefyns Fountain [Alternate 2012 Sequence Mix] [3:44]
2. Apzu [Alternate 2012 Sequence Mix] [11:00]
3. Fèis mór Tír na nÓg (Across the North Sea to Visnech) [Alternate 2012 Sequence Mix] [8:10]
4. A Quest into the 77th Novel [Alternate 2012 Sequence Mix] [5:46]
5. The Coming of War [Alternate 2012 Sequence Mix] [5:11]
6. The Sun of Tiphareth (Abridged) [Alternate 2012 Sequence Mix] [4:38]
7. Never Blow Out the Eastern Candle [Alternate 2012 Sequence Mix] [5:35]

ABSU ANNOUNCE FIRST ROUND OF TOUR DATES FOR 2025

Mythological occult metal act & Agonia Records recording act ABSU will return to the stage in 2025 for a series of concert performances to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the band’s acclaimed second album, “The Sun of Tiphareth.” Joining Proscriptor will be none other than Greek veterans ZEMIAL in completing the formidable line–up. The dates include:

February 6, 2025 – Sala Nazca – Madrid, Spain
February 7, 2025 – Sala Zulu – Valencia, Spain
February 8, 2025 – Sala Lennon's – Barcelona, Spain
February 15, 2025 – Eightball Club – Thessaloniki, Greece
February 16, 2025 – Kyttaro Club – Athens, Greece
February 22, 2025 – Rift of Hades – Quantic Club – Bucharest, Romania
March 22, 2025 – Hell’s Heroes VIII – White Oak Music Hall – Houston, TX – USA
April 10, 2025 – Traffic Live Club – Roma, Italy
April 11, 2025 – Alchemica Club – Bologna, Italy
April 12, 2025 – Hellbrigade Fest XI – Slaughter Club – Paderno Dugnano (MI), Italy
April 20 2025 – Dark Easter Metal Meeting – Munich, Germany
May 16, 2025 – Steelfest XIII – Hyvinkaa, Finland
June 4 - June 7, 2025 - Festival Mystic - Gdańsk, Poland
June 18 - 21 - House of the Holy - Neudegg Alm - Abtenau, Austria July 30 – August 2, 2025 – Beyond the Gates – Bergen, Norway
+ Tickets are available here.
August 6 - 9 - Brutal Assault Festival, Josefov Fortress, Jaromer, Czech Republic
August 8, 2025 – Alcatraz – Kortrijk, Belgium
September 7, 2025 – Candelbrum Metal Fext IV – Velaria de la Feria, Leon, Gto, Mexico
September 19-21 - Cosmic Void Festival - London, UK

Flyers for these events:

Osmose Productions to release ABSU "Barathrum: V.I.T.R.I.O.L. (30th Anniversary Edition)"

Osmose Productions is proud to announce the re–release of Absu's debut tour de force Barathrum: V.I.T.R.I.O.L. – 30th Anniversary Edition. Supplying the original DAT tape by Proscriptor himself, this ultimate edition of cult, early 90's mythological occult metal has been newly mastered for LP.

Proscriptor quotes in regards to the sound of the new master: "Now, the entire album is nothing more than pulverizing and bewitching, as our debut offering has never sounded ANY better!” The companion album features alternate instrumental mixes from the original recordings, as well as an unreleased rehearsal session from 1992.

This version will come in two formats: 1) A majestic, silver–mirrored gatefold jacket with two black LPs and 2) a Double CD version, and both will include extensive liner notes, inserts and posters.

LP Preorder here.

LP I – ORIGINAL 1993 STUDIO ALBUM

SIDE A
1. An Involution of Thorns
2. Descent to Acheron (Evolving into the Progression of Woe)
3. An Equinox of Fathomless Disheartenment
4. The Thrice is Greatest to Ninnigal

SIDE B
1. Infinite and Profane Thrones
2. Fantasizing to the Third of the Pagan Vision (Quoth the Sky, Nevermore) Act II
3. An Evolution of Horns

LP II – COMPANION ALBUM

SIDE A – ALTERNATE 1993 INSTRUMENTAL MIXES
1. Descent to Acheron (Evolving into the Progression of Woe)
2. An Equinox of Fathomless Disheartenment
3. The Thrice is Greatest to Ninnigal
4. Infinite and Profane Thrones
5. Fantasizing to the Third of the Pagan Vision (Quoth the Sky, Nevermore) Act II

SIDE B – AUTUMN EQUINOX REHEARSAL SESSION: SEPTEMBER 21, 1992
1. Descent to Acheron (Evolving into the Progression of Woe)
2. An Equinox of Fathomless Disheartenment
3. The Thrice is Greatest to Ninnigal
4. Infinite and Profane Thrones
5. Fantasizing to the Third of the Pagan Vision (Quoth the Sky, Nevermore) Act II

CD Preorder here.

CD I – ORIGINAL 1993 STUDIO ALBUM

01. An Involution of Thorns
02. Descent to Acheron (Evolving into the Progression of Woe)
03. An Equinox of Fathomless Disheartenment
04. The Thrice is Greatest to Ninnigal
05. Infinite and Profane Thrones
06. Fantasizing to the Third of the Pagan Vision (Quoth the Sky, Nevermore) Act II
07. An Evolution of Horns

CD II – COMPANION ALBUM

ALTERNATE 1993 INSTRUMENTAL MIXES

01. Descent to Acheron (Evolving into the Progression of Woe)
02. An Equinox of Fathomless Disheartenment
03. The Thrice is Greatest to Ninnigal
04. Infinite and Profane Thrones
05. Fantasizing to the Third of the Pagan Vision (Quoth the Sky, Nevermore) Act II

AUTUMN EQUINOX REHEARSAL SESSION: SEPTEMBER 21, 1992

06. Descent to Acheron (Evolving into the Progression of Woe)
07. An Equinox of Fathomless Disheartenment
08. The Thrice is Greatest to Ninnigal
09. Infinite and Profane Thrones
10. Fantasizing to the Third of the Pagan Vision (Quoth the Sky, Nevermore) Act II

ABSU Unites With ZEMIAL For “The Sun Of Tiphareth” for 30th Anniversary Tour

Mythological occult metal act & Agonia Records recording act ABSU will return to the stage in 2025 for a series of concert performances to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the band’s acclaimed second album, “The Sun of Tiphareth.” Joining Proscriptor will be none other than Greek veterans ZEMIAL in completing the formidable new line–up. Hell’s Heroes VII Festival in Houston, Texas (March 20–22) will host the first major festival performance followed by additional (global) dates to be announced.

Proscriptor remarks: “2025 will memorialize 30 years of ABSU’s sophomore invocation ‘The Sun of Tiphareth,’ an album that represents the metaphysical association between phenomenon and noumenon – illusory versus tangible. Within its augmented sense of arcane determination, this album furthered the mythological occult metal approach. Of chaos, the Deep will respond.”

He continues: “My alliance with Vorskaath (ex–Agatus/ex–Varathron) dates back to 1991, as we have been traversing parallel paths ever since – culminating in my joining ZEMIAL on stage in 2019 and Vorskaath joining PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ as keyboardist for the sole album under that name. Therefore, it made utter sense to unite ZEMIAL’s power trio with this reincarnation of ABSU. Ultimately, it is a great honor to feature Vorskaath and company, in joining me, to convey these Tipharethian rites on stage.”

Vorskaath recently said about the upcoming collaboration:
“’The Sun of Tiphareth’ represents my personal favorite album by ABSU, and through my close contact with Proscriptor, Shaftiel and Equitant, I was able to witness its inceptive creation: from the rehearsal stages until the album’s official release. I look forward to present an accurately thunderous rendition of this black/thrash colossus.”

To coincide with the performances, a deluxe 30th anniversary edition release is scheduled next year via Osmose Productions.

Photo Acknowledgments:
Michał Kaczkowski
Tsvetelin Krastev
Stefan Raduta

ABSU & PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ:
Website: https://absu.us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialabsu
Twitter: https://twitter.com/absunetwork
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/absu
Bandcamp: https://absu.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/officialabsu
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialABSUChannel
Reverbnation: https://www.reverbnation.com/absu
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3eVkhnD2UKVjX5uiUsqfXP

ZEMIAL:
Facebook: https://facebook.com/ZemialOfficial
Bandcamp: https://zemial.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/zemial_official
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Zemial
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/zemial

Osmose Productions:
Website: https://osmoseproductions.com
Webshop: https://osmoseproductions.com/index.cfm
Facebook: https://facebook.com/osmoseproductions
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OsmoseProd
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/osmoseproductions
Bandcamp: https:/osmoseproductions.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/osmoseproductions
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@osmoseproductions-official

Agonia Records:
Website: https://agoniarecords.com
Webshop: https://agoniarecords.com/store
Facebook: https://facebook.com/agoniarecords
Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/agoniarecords
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/agoniarecords
Bandcamp: https://agoniarecords.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/agoniarecordsofficial
YouTube: https://youtube.com/AgoniaRec

#absu #zemial #proscriptor #TheSunofTiphareth #vorskaath #Abzu #apsû #apsu #barathrumvitriol #blackmetal #deathmetal #heavymetal #InTheEyesOfIoldanach #mythologicaloccultmetal #occultmetal #proscriptormcgovernsapsû #Tara #TheThirdStormofCythraul #thrashmetal #usblackmetal

ABSU (feat. Zemial) to perform 'The Sun of Tiphareth' At Hell's Heroes VII Festival in 2025

Houston-based metal festival Hell’s Heroes flies under the radar a little bit, but they’ve got the killer lineups to compete with some of the bigger festivals. Hell’s Heroes will be back in 2025 for its seventh incarnation, and they just announced the first wave of the lineup on their Instagram on Wednesday. Amongst the big revelations is that Max and Iggor Cavalera’s band Cavalera (f.k.a. Cavalera Conspiracy) will be performing the Sepultura album Schizophrenia in its entirety. Cavalera recently released a re-recorded version of that album back in June.

Some of the other big names include Crimson Glory, S.A. Slayer, Hellripper, Absu performing their 1995 album The Sun of Tiphareth, and Onslaught performing their 1985 debut album Power from Hell. That’s one hell of a lineup, pun naturally intended.

The festival’s organizer, Christian Larson, had this to say:

“We are extremely excited with how Hell’s Heroes 2025 is already coming together! We have some outlandishly cool, special sets in the works for the fans with much more to be announced! We are unveiling the lineup for HHVII in waves this year, so stay tuned to see what other surprises next year holds in store.”

If these bands are just the first wave and there’s more big surprises in store, this has the potential to be the biggest and best year of Hell’s Heroes so far. Check out the full list of bands announced in the first wave below:

Crimson Glory
Cavalera performing Sepultura’s Schizophrenia
Coroner
S.A. Slayer
Absu (feat. Zemial) performing The Sun Of Tiphareth
Sadus
Onslaught performing Power From Hell
Hellripper
Crypt Sermon
Zemial
Sabïre
Hour Of 13
The Night Eternal

Hell’s Heroes VII will take place March 20-22 at the White Oak Music Hall in Houston, Texas. Three day passes are available here.

H/T: Metal Sucks

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ Premieres Lyric/Visualizer Video For “Every Watchtower Within Is The Axis Of A Watchtower Without”

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ Premieres Lyric/Visualizer Video For “Every Watchtower Within Is The Axis Of A Watchtower Without” (Abridged Single Version)

“Mythological occult metal” act Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû premieres a lyric/visualizer video for the third single taken from their debut/self-titled album, which is out now on Agonia Records. The song and video “symbolize a Fourth–Dimensional Universe in two dimensions as a square surrounded by 30 concentric circles,” as commented by the band's founder, Proscriptor. Watch the video and learn more about its symbolism below.

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ - Every Watchtower Within Is The Axis Of A Watchtower Without (Video)

“The 30 concentric circles are known as the 30 Æthyrs or Aires,” Proscriptor continues. “The Watchtower Ritual (Liber Chanokh) consists of two ‘Adeptus Minor’ parts, which features an opening within and a closing without. The opening begins with three sacramental sections:

A) Invoking The Watchtowers (four quadrangle vibrations)
B) Rending The Veils (centralized self-placement of the multiverse)
C) Forming The Vortex (Crossing The Abyss)

Rending the veils places the ceremonialist to a South altar, which becomes the traversing process. Therefore, an anti–clockwise widdershin dissipates the vortex and the ritual’s temple is finally closed – classified as a totemic threshold. This lyrical machine, of the aforementioned topic, is so subtle that the most highly sensitized mind antennae cannot pick up its grossest vibrations. The spirit of magick remains inviolate, but the act of separating the self from any past shadow (and of fusing its essence with future semblance) is the act requiring noble skill – for it must be willfully achieved.”

Touted as one of the most important bands in the history of American Black Metal, Absu was dissolved by drummer/vocalist Proscriptor McGovern (Russ R. Givens) on January 27th, 2020, after 30 years of existence. Since the band’s last, unreleased album was to be penned as “Apsû,” McGovern fused the title with his name to form this new group, Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû. Securing the ranks, alongside McGovern, are continuing bassist Ezezu (Absu: 2008-2020), new guitar virtuoso Vaggreaz (Possessed, Gruesome) and keyboardist Vorskaath (Zemial, Agatus).

The self-titled debut album was chronicled at studios around the world with final mixing handled in Dallas, Texas by both McGovern and J.T. Longoria (Absu, King Diamond, Solitude Aeternus) and mastering by Swedish Grammy nominee Karl Daniel Lidén in Sweden. The album also features guest appearances from Ross Friedman (Ross The Boss, ex-Manowar), Rune Eriksen (Aura Noir, Vltimas, ex-Mayhem), Alex Colin-Tocquaine (Agressor) and The Dark (Agatus). In assembling the album’s packaging, the band re-commissioned the expertise of renowned Polish artist Zbigniew Bielak (Darkthrone, Portal, Watain).

Track listing for “Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû” is:
I. Amenta: Accelerando: Azyn including Hierophantasmal Expounder
II. Esoterically Excoriating The Exoteric
III. Quasaric Pestilence
IV. Mirroracles
V. In-Betweeness Gateway Commuters
VI. Jupiter In Capricornus
VII. Dedicated To Thoth, But Azathoth Wasn’t Listening (A Necroloquy)
VIII. Caliginous Whorl
IX. The Coagulating Respite
X. Prana: Therion: Akasha
XI. Tantrums Of Azag-Kkû
XII. Every Watchtower Within Is The Axis Of A Watchtower Without including Totemic Thresholds

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ is:
Proscriptor McGovern – Drums/Percussion, Lyricism, Maestro Echoplex, Papago Flute, Digital Synthesizers & Voices (Protagonist/Dramatic Monologue Versus Omniscient/Interior Monologue)
Vorskaath – (Analogue & Digital) Synthesizers, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Mellotron & Signal Generator
Vaggreaz – Electric Lead, Rhythm, Acoustic & Bass Guitar
Ezezû – Electric Bass Guitar & Implements

Photo credit: Scott Kincade & M. Zvyagina

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ - Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû (Official Album Stream)

Official website: http://www.apsu.us

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ on-line:
Website: https://absu.us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialabsu
Twitter: https://twitter.com/absunetwork
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/absu
Bandcamp: https://absu.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/officialabsu
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialABSUChannel
Reverbnation: https://www.reverbnation.com/absu
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3eVkhnD2UKVjX5uiUsqfXP

Agonia Records:

Website: https://agoniarecords.com Webshop: https://agoniarecords.com/store
Facebook: https://facebook.com/agoniarecords
Twitter: https://twitter.com/agoniarecords
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/agoniarecords
Bandcamp: https://agoniarecords.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/agoniarecordsofficial
YouTube: http://youtube.com/AgoniaRec

New Album Stream + Lyric Videos

For those that would like to preview the new PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ album, you can do that here:

In addition, here are the official lyric videos for the following tracks:

"Prana: Therion: Akasha"

"Caliginous Whorl"

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ Reveals New Song “Caliginous Whorl”

Following the recent announcement of Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû’s self-titled debut album, which is set for release on November 26th via Agonia Records, the Texas-based “mythological occult metal” act now unveils the album’s first single, “Caliginous Whorl.”

Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû constitutes a new incarnation and direct continuation of Absu’s legacy. Touted as one of the most important bands in the history of American Black Metal, Absu was dissolved by drummer/vocalist Proscriptor McGovern (Russ R. Givens) on January 27th, 2020, after 30 years of existence. Since the band’s last, unreleased album was to be penned as “Apsû,” McGovern fused the title with his name to form this new group, Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû. Securing the ranks, alongside McGovern, are continuing bassist Ezezu (Absu: 2008-2020), new guitar virtuoso Vaggreaz (Possessed, Gruesome) and keyboardist Vorskaath (Zemial, Agatus). With this much anticipated, self-titled album, McGovern’s objective was to append the signature sound of “mythological occult metal,” but to convolute it with bouts of psychedelia, fusion and vintage electronics. When asked about the album’s final outcome, McGovern stated the following: “Having the opportunity to assemble these band members, in the development of this album, was a remarkable honour and I strongly feel this album captures the band’s true, yet frenzied potential.” McGovern, who also produced and co–engineered the album, added: “I specifically appointed these three to augment and heighten the overall sound portrait of these recordings, hoping that our emphasis on ‘mythological occult metal,’ coupled with progressive and psychedelic elements, clutches the listener’s momentum. Most importantly, I highly commend Agonia Records for migrating our musical and arcane foresight onto the next level.”

The album was chronicled at studios around the world with final mixing handled in Dallas, Texas by both McGovern and J.T. Longoria (Absu, King Diamond, Solitude Aeternus) and mastering by Swedish Grammy nominee Karl Daniel Lidén in Sweden. The album also features guest appearances from Ross Friedman (Ross The Boss, ex-Manowar), Rune Eriksen (Aura Noir, Vltimas, ex-Mayhem), Alex Colin-Tocquaine (Agressor) and The Dark (Agatus). In assembling the album’s packaging, the band re-commissioned the expertise of renowned Polish artist Zbigniew Bielak (Darkthrone, Portal, Watain). Not only did he administer the front cover, but also was assigned to create eight separate “plate illustrations” tailored around the lyrical conceptions. Regarding Bielak’s work, McGovern stated: “With incredible rapidity, he was able to resuscitate the artistic pulse after I presented the album’s subject speculations and lyrical themes. Some plate illustrations are affiliated with multiple songs; others integrated to only one song, yet Zbigniew perfectly surmounted each piece reflecting my oblique and ‘in–betweeness’ motifs.”

McGovern continues regarding the album’s lyrical approach: “This album was written for those who are curious and unwearied in their quest of arcane knowledge. I have (with vast exertion and detriment of time and space) collected knowledge deemed, in regard to my subject theories of ‘mythological occult metal:’ from Thelemic Magick and The Zos Vel Thanatos Formula to Fractal Ontology and (obviously) Near East Mythology.” Track listing for “Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû” is:

I. Amenta: Accelerando: Azyn including Hierophantasmal Expounder
II. Esoterically Excoriating The Exoteric
III. Quasaric Pestilence
IV. Mirroracles
V. In-Betweeness Gateway Commuters
VI. Jupiter In Capricornus
VII. Dedicated To Thoth, But Azathoth Wasn’t Listening (A Necroloquy)
VIII. Caliginous Whorl
IX. The Coagulating Respite
X. Prana: Therion: Akasha
XI. Tantrums Of Azag-Kkû
XII. Every Watchtower Within Is The Axis Of A Watchtower Without including Totemic Thresholds

Formats:
- Jewelcase CD
- Digi Slipcase CD
- Clam–Shell Box CD (Limited To 1000 Numbered Copies With Pin & Front Cover Flag)
- Black LP
- Swamp Green LP
- Gold LP
- Mercurial Silver LP
- Ultra Clear LP
- Picture LP
- Mephitic Vapour Splatter LP
- Cassette
- Digital

Clothing: - T-shirt 1 – Quasaric Pestilence (White On Black)
- T-shirt 2 – Tantrums Of Azag-Kkû (Black On Gray)
- T-shirt 3 – Logo With Sleeve Prints (Red On Black)
- Black HSW Zipper

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ is:

Proscriptor McGovern – Drums/Percussion, Lyricism, Maestro Echoplex, Papago Flute, Digital Synthesizers & Voices (Protagonist/Dramatic Monologue Versus Omniscient/Interior Monologue)

Vorskaath – (Analogue & Digital) Synthesizers, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Mellotron & Signal Generator

Vaggreaz – Electric Lead, Rhythm, Acoustic & Bass Guitar

Ezezû – Electric Bass Guitar & Implements

Pre-orders:
https://www.apsu.us

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ on-line:
Website: https://absu.us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialabsu
Twitter: https://twitter.com/absunetwork
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/absu
Bandcamp: https://absu.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/officialabsu
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialABSUChannel
Reverbnation: https://www.reverbnation.com/absu
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3eVkhnD2UKVjX5uiUsqfXP

Agonia Records:
Website: https://agoniarecords.com
Webshop: https://agoniarecords.com/store
Facebook: https://facebook.com/agoniarecords
Twitter: https://twitter.com/agoniarecords
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/agoniarecords
Bandcamp: https://agoniarecords.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/agoniarecordsofficial
YouTube: http://youtube.com/AgoniaRec

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ Announces New Album Release Date, Cover Illustration & Additional Details

Texas-based “mythological occult metal” act Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû, which constitutes a new incarnation and direct continuation of Absu’s legacy, will release its debut/self-titled album on November 26th, 2021 on Agonia Records.

Touted as one of the most important bands in the history of American Black Metal, Absu was dissolved by drummer/vocalist Proscriptor McGovern (Russ R. Givens) on January 27th, 2020, after 30 years of existence. Since the band’s last, unreleased album was to be penned as “Apsû,” McGovern fused the title with his name to form this new group, Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû. Securing the ranks, alongside McGovern, are continuing bassist Ezezu (Absu: 2008-2020), new guitar virtuoso Vaggreaz (Possessed, Gruesome) and keyboardist Vorskaath (Zemial, Agatus). With this much anticipated, self-titled album, McGovern’s objective was to append the signature sound of “mythological occult metal,” but to convolute it with bouts of psychedelia, fusion and vintage electronics.

When asked about the album’s final outcome, McGovern stated the following: “Having the opportunity to assemble these band members, in the development of this album, was a remarkable honour and I strongly feel this album captures the band’s true, yet frenzied potential.” McGovern, who also produced and co–engineered the album, added: “I specifically appointed these three to augment and heighten the overall sound portrait of these recordings, hoping that our emphasis on ‘mythological occult metal,’ coupled with progressive and psychedelic elements, clutches the listener’s momentum. Most importantly, I highly commend Agonia Records for migrating our musical and arcane foresight onto the next level.”

The album was chronicled at studios around the world with final mixing handled in Dallas, Texas by both McGovern and J.T. Longoria (Absu, King Diamond, Solitude Aeternus) and mastering by Swedish Grammy nominee Karl Daniel Lidén in Sweden. The album also features guest appearances from Ross Friedman (Ross The Boss, ex-Manowar), Rune Eriksen (Aura Noir, Vltimas, ex-Mayhem), Alex Colin-Tocquaine (Agressor) and The Dark (Agatus).

In assembling the album’s packaging, the band re-commissioned the expertise of renowned Polish artist Zbigniew Bielak (Darkthrone, Portal, Watain). Not only did he administer the front cover, but also was assigned to create eight separate “plate illustrations” tailored around the lyrical conceptions. Regarding Bielak’s work, McGovern stated: “With incredible rapidity, he was able to resuscitate the artistic pulse after I presented the album’s subject speculations and lyrical themes. Some plate illustrations are affiliated with multiple songs; others integrated to only one song, yet Zbigniew perfectly surmounted each piece reflecting my oblique and ‘in–betweeness’ motifs.”

McGovern continues regarding the album’s lyrical approach: “This album was written for those who are curious and unwearied in their quest of arcane knowledge. I have (with vast exertion and detriment of time and space) collected knowledge deemed, in regard to my subject theories of ‘mythological occult metal:’ from Thelemic Magick and The Zos Vel Thanatos Formula to Fractal Ontology and (obviously) Near East Mythology.”

Track listing for “Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû” is:
I. Amenta: Accelerando: Azyn including Hierophantasmal Expounder
II. Esoterically Excoriating The Exoteric
III. Quasaric Pestilence
IV. Mirroracles
V. In-Betweeness Gateway Commuters
VI. Jupiter In Capricornus
VII. Dedicated To Thoth, But Azathoth Wasn’t Listening (A Necroloquy)
VIII. Caliginous Whorl
IX. The Coagulating Respite
X. Prana: Therion: Akasha
XI. Tantrums Of Azag-Kkû
XII. Every Watchtower Within Is The Axis Of A Watchtower Without including Totemic Thresholds

Formats:
- Jewelcase CD
- Digi Slipcase CD
- Clam–Shell Box CD (Limited To 1000 Numbered Copies With Pin & Front Cover Flag)
- Black LP
- Swamp Green LP
- Gold LP
- Mercurial Silver LP
- Ultra Clear LP
- Picture LP
- Mephitic Vapour Splatter LP
- Cassette
- Digital

Clothing:
- T-shirt 1 – Quasaric Pestilence (White On Black)
- T-shirt 2 – Tantrums Of Azag-Kkû (Black On Gray)
- T-shirt 3 – Logo With Sleeve Prints (Red On Black)
- Black HSW Zipper

Photo credit: Scott Kincade & M. Zvyagina

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ is:

Proscriptor McGovern – Drums/Percussion, Lyricism, Maestro Echoplex, Papago Flute, Digital Synthesizers & Voices (Protagonist/Dramatic Monologue Versus Omniscient/Interior Monologue)

Vorskaath – (Analogue & Digital) Synthesizers, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Mellotron & Signal Generator

Vaggreaz – Electric Lead, Rhythm, Acoustic & Bass Guitar

Ezezû – Electric Bass Guitar & Implements

Pre-orders:
https://www.apsu.us

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ on-line:
Website: https://absu.us
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialabsu
Twitter: https://twitter.com/absunetwork
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/absu
Bandcamp: https://absu.bandcamp.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/officialabsu
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialABSUChannel
Reverbnation: https://www.reverbnation.com/absu
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3eVkhnD2UKVjX5uiUsqfXP

Agonia Records:
Website: https://agoniarecords.com
Webshop: https://agoniarecords.com/store
Facebook: https://facebook.com/agoniarecords
Twitter: https://twitter.com/agoniarecords
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/agoniarecords
Bandcamp: https://agoniarecords.bandcamp.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/agoniarecordsofficial
YouTube: http://youtube.com/AgoniaRec

Minor Update & Black Montanas Shirts

Sorry fo the lack of updates - there just has been nothing new to report until now. Per Agonia Records: The new album from Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû was sent to manufacturing some time ago... Cover artwork, formats, pre-orders and release date will be announced shortly. We will have that information for you here as well. Black Montanas also continues to have new designs of ABSU shirts available. You can find that here. Season of Mist also has printing for Absu shirts available here (USA) and here (International). More information very soon.

ZEMIAL’S Vorskaath Steps In As Principal Keyboardist For PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ

Drummer/Vocalist/Lyricist Proscriptor (Russ R. Givens) of the new, Texas-based “mythological occult metal” act Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû has issued the following statement:

"We have just completed the mixing process for the debut/self-titled album on Agonia Records. Earlier in 2020, I dissolved the 30-year old sanctuary of Absu to emphasize on a renewed songwriting concord. With this forthcoming record, my objective was to append the signature sound of “mythological occult metal,” but to convolute it with bouts of psychedelia, fusion and vintage electronics. The only individual that sees outside the circles of time is Vorskaath, as we have discussed a musical collaboration for nearly three decades. Now, he has fulfilled voids where applicable: from frenetic to oscillate.”

ZEMIAL’s Vorskaath recently said about his addition to the group’s new album: “As Proscriptor and I have traversed parallel pathways since 1991, it was with unadulterated pleasure that I bring my craft to this redesigned order of Sumerian lore and metaphysical Arcana. For the new album, it was my quest and charge to deliver an (a)ethereal and artistic element, which united this opus of labyrinthine chaos. And So It Is Done.” Securing the ranks with Proscriptor and Vorskaath is bassist Ezezu and guitar/bass virtuoso Vaggreaz.

Proscriptor continues regarding the album’s lyrical approach: “This album is written for those who are curious and unwearied in their quest of arcane knowledge. I have (with vast exertion and detriment of time and space) collected knowledge deemed, in regard to my subject theories of ‘mythological occult metal:’ from Thelemic Magick and The Zos Vel Thanatos Formula to Fractal Ontology and (obviously) Near East Mythology.”

The album was chronicled at studios around the world with final mixing handled in Dallas, Texas by both Proscriptor and J.T. Longoria and mastering by Karl Daniel Lidén in Sweden. The album also features guest appearances from Ross Friedman (Ross The Boss), Rune Eriksen (Aura Noir/Vltimas), Alex Colin-Tocquaine (Agressor) and The Dark (Agatus). To assemble the album’s packaging with ten separate portrait illustrations, the band has re-commissioned the expertise of renowned Polish artist Zbigniew Bielak.

Final track listing for “Proscriptor McGovern’s Apsû” is:

I. Amenta: Accelerando: Azyn including Hierophantasmal Expounder
II. Esoterically Excoriating The Exoteric
III. Quasaric Pestilence
IV. Mirroracles
V. In-Betweeness Gateway Commuters
VI. Jupiter In Capricornus
VII. Dedicated To Thoth, But Azathoth Wasn’t Listening (A Necroloquy)
VIII. Caliginous Whorl
IX. The Coagulating Respite
X. Prana: Therion: Akasha
XI. Tantrums Of Azag-Kkû
XII. Every Watchtower Within Is The Axis Of A Watchtower Without including Totemic Thresholds

PROSCRIPTOR MCGOVERN’S APSÛ is:

Proscriptor McGovern – Drums/Percussion, Lyricism, Maestro Echoplex, Papago Flute, Digital Synthesizers & Voices (Protagonist/Dramatic Monologue Versus Omniscient/Interior Monologue)

Vorskaath – (Analogue & Digital) Synthesizers, Classical/Acoustic Guitar, Mellotron & Signal Generator

Vaggreaz – Electric Lead, Rhythm, Acoustic & Bass Guitar

Ezezû – Electric Bass Guitar & Implements

Osmose Productions Re-Issue Three ABSU Albums

Osmose Productions has officially reissued three ABSU albums: ...And Shineth Unto The Cold Cometh..., Tara, and Mythological Occult Metal.

Here are the details for each album:

ABSU (USA) …And Shineth Unto The Cold Cometh… – Remastered Edition/12” EP (OPEP 005)

COLOR AVAILABILITY, PRICE & MEDIA DETAILS:
- Black = $22 USA/$40 World
- Mercurial Silver/Black Marble = $22 USA/$40 World

(Personalized Upon Request)

- Side B Silkscreened Logo 140g Record
- 220g Inner-Jacket
- A2/150g Full-Color Poster
- Assembly: PVC Overbag

Payment Must Be Made Through PayPal At The Following Address, Using The “Friends/Family” Option And Please Provide Mailing Address Within The Note Field:

tarotproductions@sbcglobal.net

ALL PRICES ARE POST PAID WORLDWIDE. (NOTE: Potential customers in Mexico, Central/South America and Asia MUST consult with me before finalizing purchase)

When purchasing more than one item, please consult with us regarding combined shipping rates.

LABEL SYNOPSIS:

...And Shineth Unto The Cold Cometh... was the follow-up/companion 7" EP released shortly after Absu’s The Sun Of Tiphareth in 1995. With a one-time pressing of 500 copies, this new version is now presented as a single-sided 12” (B-Side exposing a screen-printed Absu logo) and alternate sleeve design. (Full-color poster included)

ABSU (USA) Mythological Occult Metal: 1991-2001 – Remastered Edition/Gatefold Reissue Double LP/Double CD (OPLP/CD 173)

COLOR AVAILABILITY, PRICE & MEDIA DETAILS:

- Clear Galaxy/Recondite Red = $30 USA/$48 World
- Alquimia/Opaque White = $30 USA/$48 World
- CD = $16 USA/$28 World

(Personalized Upon Request)

- Two (2) Heavyweight 180-220g Records
- 350g Gatefold Jacket
- A2/150g Full-Color Poster
- Assembly: Two (2) Black Poly-Lined Innerbags & PVC Overbag

Payment Must Be Made Through PayPal At The Following Address, Using The “Friends/Family” Option And Please Provide Mailing Address Within The Note Field:

tarotproductions@sbcglobal.net

ALL PRICES ARE POST PAID WORLDWIDE. (NOTE: Potential customers in Mexico, Central/South America and Asia MUST consult with me before finalizing purchase)

When purchasing more than one item, please consult with us regarding combined shipping rates.

LABEL SYNOPSIS:
Originally released in 2005 as a one-time limited pressing, the Cythrául Klan vaults have reopened a second time with this “Rest Of” collection appropriately titled Mythological Occult Metal: 1991-2001. This double-LP anthology consists of rarities, EPs, covers, live and unreleased tracks, which were never featured on the five Osmose releases. Included are some discarded spells dating back to the band’s earliest songwriting efforts – one of which is their very first 7” EP: The Temples Of Offal. This compilation documents all of Absu’s phases within the above-mentioned decade. (Full-color poster included)

ABSU (USA) Tara – Remastered Edition/Gatefold Reissue Double LP (OPLP 098)

COLOR AVAILABILITY, PRICE & MEDIA DETAILS:
- Clear Galaxy/Marble Chestnut = $30 USA/$48 World
- Clear Galaxy/Gaelic Green = $30 USA/$48 World
- Alquimia/Opaque Gold = $30 USA/$48 World

(Personalized Upon Request)

- Two (2) Heavyweight 180-220g Records
- 350g Gatefold Jacket
- A2/150g Full-Color Poster
- Assembly: Two (2) Black Poly-Lined Innerbags & PVC Overbag

Payment Must Be Made Through PayPal At The Following Address, Using The “Friends/Family” Option And Please Provide Mailing Address Within The Note Field:
tarotproductions@sbcglobal.net

ALL PRICES ARE POST PAID WORLDWIDE. (NOTE: Potential customers in Mexico, Central/South America and Asia MUST consult with me before finalizing purchase)

When purchasing more than one item, please consult with us regarding combined shipping rates.

LABEL SYNOPSIS:
Osmose Productions is honored to re-unleash Absu’s fourth full-length masterpiece, Tara, as a dual-album set. Originally released in late May of 2001, it has been a highly celebrated recording and a loyal favorite amongst Absu’s followers. Unlike the band's previous two releases, Tara is a concept album that principally deals with the harmony of strife, immortality, puissance and tyranny. It was immediately conceived after their 1998 release of In The Eyes Of Ioldánach when drummer/vocalist Proscriptor's frustration grew with the sinking intelligence in the extreme metal world – it was his calling to fully educate his audience. Therefore, the album features a lexicon (glossary) insert of pensive occult systems and mythological notations – to assist the listener with an enlightened, more comprehensive understanding. As always, Kris Verwimp infuses the gatefold with three sensational illustrations. (Full-color poster included)