New York City avant-death architects IMPERIAL TRIUMPHANT unveil Merkurius Gilded, a 96-page softcover graphic novel expanding the band’s labyrinthine mythos. Written by guitarist Zachary Ezrin and illustrated by Halil Mete, the book arrives December 5 via Vile Luxe Press, marking the group’s debut venture into narrative art. Each pre-order includes an exclusive Caduceus gold patch alongside the novel.
Ezrin comments:
“This is a very special project for me as it’s something that has taken me five years to complete. I look forward to sharing this vision and story with all of you. I hope you enjoy it as I enjoyed creating it.”
Illustrator Halil Mete adds:
“Being an extreme metal fan, working with Imperial Triumphant on this book was nothing short of a dream come true. Bringing their dystopian world to life through my art, guided by the intensity of their music, was an unforgettable creative experience that will forever mark a milestone in my career.”
Merkurius Gilded – Synopsis
In the city of New Colossus, a lower-class worker is seduced by the gilded world of high society. What begins as fascination soon spirals into revelation as she uncovers the horrific truths beneath the surface of “the greatest city on earth.” Torn between vengeance and desire, she must decide whether to destroy the corruption—or surrender to the decadence that consumes it.
“Imperial Triumphant make extreme music high art.” — Knotfest
Merkurius Gilded follows the band’s acclaimed sixth full-length album, Goldstar (released March 21, 2025), praised by The Needle Drop’s Anthony Fantano as “their best album to date.” As Goldstar explored the gilded decay of modern civilization through sound, Merkurius Gilded extends that vision into a visual and narrative medium—melding the worlds of high art, urban decay, and existential dread.
Explore more at imperialtriumphant.com
Pre-order Merkurius Gilded via Bandcamp