On Monday, November 25th, 1996, Deviser released their debut album — a record destined to haunt not only the course of the Greek scene up to this day, but also generations of listeners, especially those who lived through its original release.
Everyone in the country was excited, with bands that had already delivered significant displays of quality — Rotting Christ, Varathron, Necromantia, Septicflesh, Nightfall — yet listeners were craving something more. A band that would be melodic, dark, extreme, with a distinctly Greek sound but a European-level production, symphonic elements used only where needed, fast tempos without becoming tiring, and much more. In short, we all wanted to hear a perfect album.
Manthos Hnaras, Nikos Christogiannis and Giorgos Triantafyllakis, with the participation of Nikos Samakouris on drums, presented something that even today, it is certain that not even they themselves have fully grasped.
An album that stands at the top, holding one of the leading positions in the history of the Greek extreme metal scene.
A landmark album — a defining opus for everyone who followed. A record where melodic ritual darkness meets all the beautiful elements of the 90s atmosphere, carving the path of Hellenic Black Metal.
Its flawless production — for the era and for Greek standards — and the compositions, which have gone down in history.
“Threnody” became the track that, within a very short time, became widely known, played in metal club playlists of the time and covered by many bands, making it one of the most iconic hits.
With this anniversary, we honor Deviser and their masterpiece.
“Unspeakable Cults” is more than just an album: it is a monument of creativity, passion, and love for music.
If you haven’t listened to Unspeakable Cults, now is the perfect moment to immerse yourself in its world. And if you already know it, this is the ideal opportunity to revisit it and rediscover why it remains so important, 29 years after its release.
There are albums we don’t simply listen to — we feel them.
Deviser’s “Unspeakable Cults” is exactly that kind of work of art. For those who have heard it, the experience goes far beyond music. It is a plunge into dark, mystical atmospheres that remain indelible in memory.
Tracklist:
1.Stand & Deliver
2.Darkness Incarnate
3.Threnody
4.When Nightmares Begin
5.The Rape of Holiness
6.Ritual Orgy
7.Dangers of a Real and Concrete Nature
8.The Fire Burning Bright
9.In the Horror Field
10.Afterkill
Lineup:
Nick Christogiannis Bass, Keyboards, Vocals (backing)
Nick Samakouris Drums
George Triantafillakis Guitars (lead)
Matt Hnaras Vocals, Guitars (rhythm), Lyrics
Label: Mascot Records
Written & edited by:
Spyros Tribos
