r/DarkGothicArt

In alchemy, putrefactio is the crucial stage of decomposition and rotting where old forms break down completely. Represented by the blackening or nigredo, this process reduces materials to a uniform black mass. It is the essential death of the old before spiritual or physical rebirth.

An older work of mine from 2016, acrylic on canvas. Ishtar is an ancient Mesopotamian goddess, sometimes referred to as the "Queen of Heaven."

This illustration refers to the popular theme: " The Dance Macabre"

After a couple of listens, I think this is Moonspell’s strongest album in a long time. It’s not the heaviest thing they’ve ever done, but it absolutely nails the atmosphere. The keyboards are the MVP of the album and Ricardo’s guitar work is phenomenal throughout. Fernando's vocals are more diverse than any prior album, and he picks his battles very wisely. Just my first impressions track by track:

1. Cross Your Heart: Probably my least favorite. Catchy, almost poppy riff. I can see gothic rock fans loving it, but it didn’t have the emotional depth the rest of the album has.

2. Far From God: That intro is incredible. I was expecting it to go somewhere much darker, but it took a different route. Great lyrics and one of the best bass performances on the album.

3. Biblical: Love at first listen. The slow build from that opening bass line into the final climax is so satisfying. Reminded me of Lunar Still (Antidote), but I think they pulled it off even better here. The guitar solo will be a treat to watch live

4. The Great Wolf in the Sky: This is where I understood the whole “Irreligious for the 21st century” comparison. Haunting keyboards and great guitars. I just wish the lyrics hit as hard as the music.

5. Your Promise of Light: Hypnotizing atmosphere. Loved the oriental feel of the main riff and Fernando switching between whispers and growls depending on the lyrics.

6. For the Love of Mortals: Beautiful. Ricardo’s guitar melodies reminded me of Domina (Extinct) - not that the riffs are similar but that how good he is at crafting melodious, melancholic leads. Honestly feels like the closest Moonspell have ever come to writing a ballad, and it completely works.

7. Our Freedom to Fall: Ah, finally, the chuggy chug riffs. Heaviest song on the album. Fernando sounds absolutely massive here and I can already see this becoming a live staple.

8. Reconquista: Epic closer. Got serious Full Moon Madness (Irreligious) vibes from the opening. Best guitar solo on the album, and the “Under the Moon, Under the Spell” chant gave me goosebumps.

Overall, I love how confident this album sounds. The focus on atmosphere and emotion instead of heaviness sits really well with me.

Curious to hear everyone else’s thoughts!

Font of the week: Kingdom

Crowned in Flourish. Forged for Royal Decrees.

Kingdom is a tall, elegant blackletter font that commands attention through height, balance, and lavish ornamentation. Sharp gothic forms rise into sweeping flourishes, creating letterforms that feel equally at home carved into castle gates, illuminated manuscripts, or royal proclamations.

Illustration in watercolor and ink. Corresponds to the description of the verses of Poe's poem The Raven:
"Till the dirges of his Hope that melancholy burden bore Of 'Never-nevermore.
James William Carling (English, 1857 - 1887)