THE BEAST

PRESS RELEASE

Sebastiano Mattiazzi Announces Release of “Ara” – A Dark Ritual Metal Masterpiece

Release Date : February 1st, 2025
Location : Brooklyn, NY
Genre : Black Metal

For fans of: Gorgoroth, Mayhem, Behemoth

Sebastiano Mattiazzi, an Italian composer and musician based in Brooklyn, NY, is set to release his highly anticipated work, Ara , on February 1st, 2025. This composition reimagines black metal through the lens of classical music composition, forging a unique blend of dark, primordial energy with intricate musicianship.

Ara explores the ancient and mystical themes of Hesiod’s Theogony , specifically focusing on the primordial demon Ara and her tragic connection to the mythological figure Kronos. The project is a 5-part metal composition, blending traditional black metal instrumentation with complex classical techniques, creating a work that is as intellectually stimulating as it is sonically intense.

Sebastiano Mattiazzi’s journey began as a member of the Italian progressive rock band Sovrappensiero, before moving into the realm of radical improvisation with solo and trio works. His 2018 solo album In Your Room marked his shift to a more intimate acoustic atmosphere, followed by electronic/vaporwave experiments in two singles. His 2021 piece Drawers , a chamber ensemble work, premiered at the Nutida Contemporary Dance Festival. Now, with Ara , Sebastiano combines classical sounds with the ferocity of black metal, redefining the boundaries of both genres.

The album’s production is a collaboration of talented musicians, including Andrea Lombardini on bass, Krzysztof Klingbein on drums, and Sebastiano himself on vocals and guitar. The work also features expert mixing by Colin Marston and mastering by Federico Pelle. The album’s dark and enigmatic cover art is created by the talented Гриша.

Ara is not just a musical composition; it is a ritualistic exploration of the primordial forces that shaped humanity. The concept of the work delves into a post-apocalyptic, post-social world where the Titans are worshipped as divine entities—an ode to the original, untold Curse of Ara, the demon inscribed in ancient Greek texts. This composition offers a sonic pilgrimage through a tragic mythological narrative, anchored by the deep presence of Ara—the curse and the altar.

Ara will be available as both a fully produced album and sheet music, allowing listeners to experience the full scope of this visionary project. It is a bold and monumental addition to the world of black metal, blending ritualistic themes with the musical sophistication of classical composition.

Credits:
Music, Voice, and Guitar: Sebastiano Mattiazzi
Bass: Andrea Lombardini
Drums: Krzysztof Klingbein
Editing: Andrea De Marchi
Mixing: Colin Marston
Mastering: Federico Pelle
Cover Art: Гриша

Sebastiano Mattiazzi’s Ara is a must-listen for fans of atmospheric, ritualistic black metal that pushes the boundaries of both genre and artistry. Prepare for a journey into the abyss as Ara brings to life the tragic myth of the Titans with haunting precision.

Ara will be available for streaming and purchase on February 1st, 2025.

For press inquiries or more information, contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com

Keep up with Sebastiano Mattiazzi at these links:

https://www.instagram.com/sebastiano_music/
https://www.sebastianomattiazzi.com/
|https://open.spotify.com/artist/5VvkRSQVbVv3CkJKcRQAWZ
https://music.amazon.com/artists/B01ENMW6SY
https://sebastiano-mattiazzi.bandcamp.com/
https://soundcloud.com/sebastiano-music