Originally an idea and project of guitarist Stephan H, Akphaezya was fully formed in 2002 by the inclusion of Loic Moussaoui (Drums), Stephane Beguier (Bass guitar) and the inimitable Nehl Aëlin (Voices and keyboards). The band swiftly set about writing their first album, Anthology II, the demo version of which was recorded and released in 2004 and was greeted with great fervour by critics in France, Canada, Belgium and Morocco. The notoriety that the album gave the band allowed them to develop and play a large number of gigs across France and Belgium. Akphaezya then set about with the professional recordings of Anthology II with different, updated versions of the songs. The album was noticed by new up-and-coming UK label Ascendance Records who immediately felt the band would be a perfect addition to their catalogue because of their unique and original sound, blending many types of metal and musical styles effortlessly into one album. Ascendance Records signed Akphaezya for a multi-album deal in August 2007. The album was recorded between 3 studios: Conkrete Studio; Sylvain Biguet's studio and Tower Studio, where it was mixed by Brett Caldas-Lima (To-Mera, Kalisia). Anthology II is the first part to be released of a five album series, each part following in an asynchronous order. Akphaezya is a realm of escapist invitation written by Stephan H. which is split into three levels - a literal one, a musical one and a visual one. Firstly, the lyrics tell a story throughout the album, secondly the music which either follows or contrasts the occurrences in the Akphaezyan world, in order to illustrate the characters' emotions. Then, the visual concept, conceived by Stephan H. and created by the talented graphic artist Wizp that gives life to the particular world of Akphaezya. Being both a musical and conceptual journey, Akphaezya is certain to be much appreciated by those into the progressive and adventurous sides of metal.
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