Explore the sacred domains

Origin: Germany
Formed: 2007
Location: Berlin
Genre: Symphonic Black / Thrash Metal
Status: Split‑up
Label: Independent
Themes: Darkness, War, Death, Evil

Asael’ was a Berlin‑based symphonic black/thrash metal band formed in 2007 by musicians of Russian origin. Their sound fused the sharp, aggressive riffing of thrash metal with the dramatic, keyboard‑driven atmosphere of symphonic black metal, creating a style that was both raw and theatrical. Lyrically, the band embraced themes of darkness, war, death, and malevolent forces, delivered through harsh vocals and a cold, militant tone.

Origins & Formation (2007–2008)

The band emerged from a tight‑knit circle of Russian expatriate musicians active in Berlin’s underground metal scene. The founding lineup—Anatolij “Azazello” Körner on vocals, PaKiSS and Maxim Grinchenko on guitars, Stanislav Mikhaylov on bass, and Vladimir “Zuz” on drums—quickly established a sound rooted in Eastern European black metal aggression but enriched with symphonic elements provided by early keyboardist Svetlana Schoch.

Their first release, the Die Prophezeiung demo (2008), introduced a band with a strong sense of atmosphere and a penchant for combining fast, thrash‑infused riffing with dark, orchestral textures.

Full‑Length & Peak Activity (2009)

In 2009, Asael’ released their only full‑length album, also titled Die Prophezeiung, which expanded on the ideas of the demo with a more cohesive and forceful sound. The album showcased:

• aggressive, thrash‑driven guitar work
• symphonic layers that heightened the dramatic tension
• harsh, commanding vocals
• lyrical themes centered on apocalyptic visions, warfare, and occult darkness

This release marked the creative peak of the band and remains their defining work within the underground.

Later Years & Dissolution

After the full‑length, the band’s activity gradually diminished. Lineup changes and the departure of early members—particularly the loss of keyboardist Svetlana and guitarist Andrej Lotz—reduced the symphonic dimension of their sound. No further recordings followed, and Asael’ eventually dissolved without a formal announcement, becoming one of the many short‑lived but memorable acts in Berlin’s extreme metal landscape.

Identity & Legacy

Asael’ is remembered for their distinctive blend of symphonic black metal and thrash aggression, shaped by the cultural background of its members and the harsh, urban atmosphere of Berlin’s underground. Their music carries the imprint of Eastern European black metal intensity, combined with a dramatic flair that set them apart from more traditional German acts.