Melechesh is an influential metal band that was originally formed in Jerusalem in 1993 by lead member Ashmedi. With a name that translates to "King of Fire" in Hebrew, Melechesh has established themselves as a unique force within the metal scene, known for blending black metal with Middle Eastern music influences, creating a subgenre sometimes referred to as Mesopotamian metal or Oriental metal. The band's lyrical themes often delve into Mesopotamian and Sumerian mythology, occultism, and ancient history, which perfectly complements their sonically rich and exotic soundscapes.

Over the years, Melechesh has faced numerous challenges due to the controversial nature of their music in their home region, which contributed to them eventually relocating to Amsterdam. Nevertheless, they have persevered and made a significant impact with their innovative style. Some of their most influential albums include "Djinn" (2001), which was groundbreaking in introducing Middle Eastern instrumentation into black metal, "Sphynx" (2003) with its labyrinthine song structures and mystical themes, "Emissaries" (2006), which further cemented their reputation, and "The Epigenesis" (2010), distinguished for its deep exploration of Mesopotamian and ancient world motifs. Their most recent full-length album, "Enki" (2015), received critical acclaim for its intricate compositions and continued expansion of their unique sound. The instrumental version of "The Epigenesis" showcases the band's technical prowess and the complexity of their compositions, further solidifying Melechesh's status as pioneers in their genre.