Xathrites is a band known for their atmospheric DSBM sound, emanating haunting melodies across the Iraqi wilderness. The band was established in 2005, initially focused on creating raw black metal music. However, the outbreak of war transformed their surroundings into a desolate ghost city, where sorrow and loss became a daily reality. The once vibrant streets became a stark reminder of the tragedy, as the air grew heavy, the sky turned gray, and despair was etched on every face. Happiness seemed unattainable. Channeling their immense sadness, hatred, grief, and despair, Xathrites infused these emotions into their music, crafting more melancholic and sorrowful riffs, while their lyrics delved into these themes, leading the band towards the realm of depressive black metal.
The impact of war scarred the group deeply, compelling them to seek refuge away from their homeland. Given the risks associated with creating this type of music in their cultural environment, the band went on hiatus for several years. In 2013, they self-produced their first album, which gained substantial attention, amassing over a million views on YouTube before being censored due to the controversial themes it touched upon. Xathrites became renowned, but the challenging circumstances faced by the band’s founder hindered their progress. A new album was released in 2020, receiving positive reception and accumulating tens of thousands of views. Finally, in November 2022, the band regrouped with a new lineup, delivering a higher production quality compared to their previous albums.
Their upcoming album, “No Room For Another Wound,” is scheduled for release in 2023 via Sliptrick Records.
Xathrites consists of the following members:
- Whirlwind: Vocals/Guitar
- Alex Basher: Lead Guitar
- Ronce: Drums
- Wendigo: Bass
