Few names resonate in the metal scene as mysteriously as MELECHESH, known for creating their own genre, “Mesopotamian metal,” a blend of black metal darkness, thrash metal speed, and ethnic elements from Assyrian folklore that evoke Ancient Mesopotamia. After just over a 10-year hiatus, they are returning with the new EP, “Sentinels of Shamash,” released through Reigning Phoenix Music on April 10, 2026.
MELECHESH began playing in 1993 in Jerusalem, with music and lyrics exploring the most obscure corners of Mesopotamian lore. During this period, the band released the legendary album “As Jerusalem Burns…Al’Intisar” (1996), which firmly established their unique identity based on the aggression of black metal combined with Assyrian arrangements—an innovative soundscape at that time. Their subsequent albums continued to secure their position in the heavy metal industry, making them a cornerstone figure in what later became known as “Oriental Metal,” a subgenre that gained popularity in the 2000s among bands emerging in West Asia and North Africa, seeking to blend metal music with cultural elements from those regions, both in sound and lyrics. MELECHESH eventually moved to the Netherlands, where they continue to operate.
The band is making a gradual return, with “Sentinels of Shamash” serving as the first release from an upcoming album they are currently trying to fund through a crowdfunding campaign on their website, where any fan can contribute. “Sentinels of Shamash” is available exclusively on digital platforms and includes three tracks, totaling around 21 minutes.
The EP opens fiercely with “The Seventh Verdict,” a track that combines the best elements of thrash metal speed and black metal atmosphere, featuring deep growls and blasting drumbeats. The song transitions smoothly, ending with a devilish scream that leads into a moment of deep silence. The energy continues with “In Shadows, In Light,” which has a more thrash metal influence with a fast rhythm and stringy vocals that stay within mid-range notes, following the other instruments throughout the entire melody. The third and final track, “Raptors of Anzu,” begins mystically, with wind sounds blending with aggressive riffs and growls that feel like an open gate to the underworld. Like the previous track, “Raptors of Anzu” maintains a steady sound with rapid arrangements complemented by Ashmedi’s vocals, a mix of deep growls and a harsh voice. This track offers listeners an electrifying experience with speedy guitars throughout, culminating in a ticking moment near the end, where traditional percussion intertwines with a strong howl, lowering the energy and ending with a soothing volume drop—completing the EP in stark contrast to how it began.
“Sentinels of Shamash” is a solid preview of something larger on the horizon; however, it cannot be considered a full comeback for a few reasons. While the EP boasts a powerful sound, its atmosphere feels somewhat monotonous; it lacks the obscure arrangements and traditional sounds characteristic of the band’s earlier works. A few brief elements appear here and there, but most do not take on a leading role within the tracks. The three songs share a similar sound, delivering the typical intensity of thrash metal, yet they lack the ethereal assemblies needed to evoke a journey through the Assyrian lore. This results in an EP with an ambivalent personality—one that tries to be part of the thrash metal world but still relies on black metal influences. Additionally, the tracks are significantly lengthy. In an industry where shorter compositions have become standard across genres to reflect contemporary listening habits, producing extended songs presents certain challenges. Although there is artistic value in crafting long-lasting pieces that guide listeners through multiple distinct sections, this EP falls short of achieving such distinction due to the uniformity present in its overall soundscape.
All things considered, “Sentinels of Shamash” could have delivered a more dynamic mix of intensity and mysticism. Still, as MELECHESH returns, a full album likely follows this EP. The band’s resurgence is just starting.
Written by Hector Sanchez
TRACKLIST
- The Seventh Verdict
- In Shadows, In Light
- Raptors of Anzu
LINEUP
Ashmedi | lead vocals, guitars, sitar, keyboards
Moloch | guitars, buzuq
Lord Curse | drums, percussion
LABEL
Reigning Phoenix Music
