Originally written for Alternative Matter.
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Akphaezya have been making music since 2002, but Anthology IV (The Tragedy of Nerak) is their first release with Code666. Founded and conceptualized by Stephan H. Zag-Zero, who brought on the other musicians on to realize his vision, Akphaezya is a band whose albums are all connected via a larger narrative. This particular record, as the title Anthology IV (The Tragedy of Nerak) might indicate, is rooted in Greek tragedy. The tale seems to centre on some archeological items that hint at the story of a fictional land called Akphaezya. The albums are an attempt to tell those stories
Akphaezya’s music is dense and weird. The closest point of comparison that I can think of is Pin-Up Went Down, for the strangeness and variety of the instrumentation (elements of jazz, folk and metal) and the strange, romantic tint that colours the project. The band also reminds me French Canadian band UnexpecT for the sudden shifts and stops, the crazy cabaret feel that creeps in to numbers like “Sophrosune.” Also, vocalist and keyboardist Nehl Aelin’s voice is the centrepiece to the soul, much like Leïlindel’s. Her voice is swooping and soaring, delicate and powerful, the key instrument for expressing the emotion of the piece
For all its weirdness, Anthology IV (The Tragedy of Nerak) includes some simpler, enjoyably heavy songs too, like on “Genesis.” This piece features great guitar work throughout, and sets a driving rhythm on this song that you can’t help but headbang to. Musically diverse, narratively compelling and skillfully executed, Anthology IV (The Tragedy of Nerak) is an album that requires some effort but is certainly worth it.