Theli (1997)

Brilliant

I was never a fan of gothic or death metal but this album totally changed my mind. I had no idea music by "that kind of band" could be so complex and lovely. The main instruments that you will hear on this album are the violin, piano, drums and guitar with a touch of operatic elements every now and then. There are also some sexy female vocals. Don't expect much from the lyrics, though. It's probably a mix of English, Latin and the extinct Akkadian language. The lyrics sound satanic and they probably are but who cares? I don't believe in stuff like that. All I know is that these guys sound great and make me feel good. I recently purchased the limited edition CD with two extra live bonus tracks (To Mega Therion and Black Sun). Unfortunately, I accidentally got rid of my old one some years back which is why I had to buy it again. That one did not include the bonus tracks but came in a jewel case unlike this one which has a cardboard i.e. digipack case instead. I prefer the jewel case but it's not a big deal. I haven't really gotten into Therion's more recent stuff but I hear nothing before or after compares to this album. It's a keeper.