Cathedral Cathedral

Cathedral: A Journey of Doom and Discord

Amidst the ethereal realm of doom metal, Cathedral emerged as a formidable force, their haunting melodies and thunderous riffs leaving an indelible mark on the genre.

Origins and Controversies:

Formed in 1989 by guitarist Lee Dorrian, Cathedral's early years were marred by controversy. Their debut album, "Forest of Equilibrium," was met with mixed reviews due to its experimental nature. However, it laid the foundation for their unique blend of traditional doom and gothic influences.

Rise to Prominence:

Despite initial setbacks, Cathedral's sophomore effort, "The Ethereal Mirror," catapulted them to critical acclaim. The album's epic tracks and haunting vocals established them as a force to be reckoned with. Their subsequent releases, including "Soul Sacrifice" and "The Carnival Bizarre," solidified their reputation as one of the pioneers of doom metal.

Song of Love and Darkness:

One of Cathedral's most enduring compositions is the ethereal ballad "Amor Sublime." Originally featured on the album "Ethereal Mirror," the song's haunting melodies and evocative lyrics have resonated with countless fans over the years. It serves as a testament to the band's ability to craft both crushing heaviness and poignant beauty.

Challenges and Departures:

Throughout their career, Cathedral faced various challenges, including lineup changes and Dorrian's struggles with substance abuse. In 2013, the band announced their parting due to creative differences.

Legacy and Influence:

Despite their eventual dissolution, Cathedral's influence on the doom metal scene remains undeniable. Their innovative fusion of heavy riffs and ethereal melodies has inspired a new generation of bands. The band's legacy is further cemented by their inclusion in esteemed compilations such as "The Decibel Book of Metal" and "The Best of Doom Metal."

Members:

* Lee Dorrian - Vocals, Guitar
* Garry Jennings - Bass
* Mark Griffiths - Drums
* Scott Carlson - Vocals (1994-1998)
* Ben Ward - Vocals (2001-2003)
* Leo Smee - Guitar (2003-2013)

Discography:

* Forest of Equilibrium (1991)
* The Ethereal Mirror (1993)
* Soul Sacrifice (1994)
* The Carnival Bizarre (1995)
* Supernatural Birth Machine (1996)
* In Memoriam (1999)
* The VIIth Coming (2002)
* Ethereal Mirror (Re-recorded) (2006)
* The Garden of Unearthly Delights (2008)
* The Last Spire (2013)