International Mesopotamian metal band Melechesh have revealed their latest single, “In Shadows, In Light”, offering a powerful preview of their forthcoming EP, Sentinels Of Shamash, set for release on April 10 via Reigning Phoenix Music.
A Journey Through Hidden Knowledge
“In Shadows, In Light” continues Melechesh’s signature exploration of esoteric philosophy, ancient symbolism, and cosmic consciousness. The track delves into themes of:
- Hidden dimensions and unseen forces
- Sacred geometry and perception
- The duality of concealment and revelation
The band explains:
“Cosmic knowledge hidden in plain sight… revealed only through perception. The unseen becomes ‘felt’ rather than explained.”
Structured as a multi-layered sonic journey, the song evolves through shifting moods—balancing tension and release while mirroring its philosophical depth.
Signature Sound, Elevated
Musically, the track showcases Melechesh’s unmistakable blend of:
- Blackened thrash intensity
- Middle Eastern scales and melodies
- Hypnotic, ritualistic rhythms
The result is a dynamic and immersive composition that moves seamlessly between atmospheric passages and crushing riffs—further cementing the band’s unique place within extreme metal.
Production & Collaborators
“In Shadows, In Light” was:
- Produced by Ashmedi
- Co-produced by Rob Caggiano & Kristian Kohlmannslehner
Additional contributions include:
- Bass & backing vocals: Rob Caggiano
- Drums: Nikitas Mandolas
- Engineering, mixing & mastering: Kristian “Kohle” Kohlmannslehner
Sentinels Of Shamash: Myth, Fire, and Judgment
The upcoming EP, Sentinels Of Shamash, is described as a ceremonial descent into ancient law and cosmic vigilance, drawing heavily from Mesopotamian mythology, particularly Shamash, the god of truth and justice.
Each track unfolds like a sacred inscription, invoking:
- Forgotten gods and fallen kings
- Divine wrath and cosmic order
- The eternal struggle between chaos and balance

Tracklist
- The Seventh Verdict
- In Shadows, In Light
- Raptors of Anzu
A Legacy of Mesopotamian Metal
Formed in 1993 in Jerusalem, Melechesh have long stood apart in the extreme metal landscape. By fusing black metal and thrash with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences, they effectively pioneered what they define as “Mesopotamian Metal”.
Led by the nomadic visionary Ashmedi, the band continues to push boundaries, bridging ancient myth with modern extremity while influencing a new generation of artists.
Pre-save Sentinels Of Shamash ahead of its April 10 release: melechesh.rpm.link/sos
With “In Shadows, In Light,” Melechesh reaffirm their status as one of extreme metal’s most intellectually ambitious and sonically distinct forces—delivering a track that is as philosophically rich as it is sonically devastating.