"Apotheosis" is a concept album that delves into the fleeting nature of humanity against the backdrop of powerful supernatural forces. Drawing inspiration from the myths and tragedies of the Archaic and Classical Greek eras, the album explores themes of man's struggle for power, knowledge, and ultimately, his place in the universe. Through tales of gods and war, Ārdeat paints a vivid picture of humanity's desperate attempts to transcend its limitations, a quest that often leads to devastating consequences.
Founded in Brescia in 2021, Ārdeat emerged from the collaboration of Enrico Pinelli, Julian Polonioli, Riccardo Cremaschini, and Andrea Salvagni, who reunited after years of involvement in various musical ventures. The band’s first single—a compelling cover of Franco Battiato’s “Atlantide”—led to the addition of guitarist Cristian della Noce and the creation of their debut EP, Exitivm. This EP, featuring a monumental 20-minute track split into two acts, established Ārdeat as a formidable force in the black metal scene.
Ārdeat didn't stop there. In 2022, they paid homage to the legendary Bathory by contributing a cover of "Home of Once Brave" to a tribute compilation championed by Antichrist Magazine. They then took their music to the stage, sharing bills with Italian metal royalty like Mortuary Drape, Opera IX, Darkend, and Black Oath.
Ārdeat's sound is a potent blend of atmospheric black metal, the tight riffing of early death metal, and the melodic hooks of the NWOBHM. Drawing inspiration from bands like Dissection, Mgla, and Spite Extreme Wing, they forge a sound that is both fiercely aggressive and hauntingly beautiful.