Opera IX is an Italian symphonic black metal band that has skilfully woven elements of folk and gothic influences into their music. Formed in 1988 in Biella, Piedmont, they are considered one of the pioneers in combining the raw energy of black metal with the more evocative and atmospheric melodies of opera and classical music. The band's creative output is marked by a distinctive blend of occult and historical themes, which they explore through their lyrical content. Over the years, Opera IX has seen some lineup changes, with the charismatic vocalist Cadaveria, who fronted the band from their early years until 2001, being one of the most notable members.

Since their inception, Opera IX has released a series of commitment albums that have secured their place in the underground metal scene. "The Call of the Wood" (1994), their debut full-length album, established their presence with its epic narratives and powerful orchestration. They continued to build on their dark, melodic style with albums like "Sacro Culto" (1998) and the theatrical "The Black Opera: Symphoniæ Mysteriorum in Laudem Tenebrarum" (2000), which received acclaim for its ambitious concept and elaborate compositions. After the turn of the millennium, the band sustained their momentum with works such as "Anphisbena" (2004) and the ferocious "Strix - Maledicte In Aeternum" (2012). Their most recent release, "The Gospel" (2018), along with the commemorative re-recording of their seminal album, "Back To Sepulcro" (2015), showcases a matured sound that both pays homage to their roots and pushes the boundaries of their genre. Opera IX remains an influential force within black metal, revered for their ability to conjure brooding atmospheres laden with historical mystique and arcane rituals.

Genres

Gothic Black Metal

Italian Black Metal

Italian Gothic Metal

Italian Metal

Symphonic Black Metal

Latest Release

The Call of the Wood

Opera IX

Ep - 5 Tracks - Released March 11, 2020