Runemagick |Cycle Of The Dying Sun (Dawn Of Ashen Realms) |Hammerheart Records

Release Date: October 31^st, 2025

Format: LP/CD/Digital

Genre: Death/Doom Metal

Country: Sweden

    Runemagick emerged in the early 1990s as the personal vision of Nicklas Rudolfsson, a figure deeply rooted in the Scandinavian extreme metal underground. What began as a largely solitary project soon evolved with the involvement of Robert Pehrsson, adding new momentum during the band’s formative years. Early Runemagick material blended death, doom, and black metal elements, shaped by the dark heritage of acts such as Bathory, Hellhammer, Celtic Frost, and Candlemass. Over time, lineups shifted and activity levels fluctuated, yet the project never dissolved. Across decades, Runemagick remained a persistent entity, guided by Rudolfsson’s dedication and an unbroken connection to its core identity.

“Cycle Of The Dying Sun (Dawn Of Ashen Realms)” stands as a focused continuation of Runemagick’s long path through death doom. Entirely written and performed by Nicklas Rudolfsson, the album reflects a singular vision, grounded in restrained pacing and an austere atmosphere. The material unfolds at deliberate tempos, favoring heaviness through persistence and tone rather than speed or excess. This approach aligns closely with the band’s established language, presenting a work that settles into its own space without distraction.

The production, handled at Sonic Train Studios and Necrotic Noise Studio with Andy La Rocque overseeing the final sound, supports the album’s steady character. The sound is solid and grounded, allowing the songs to develop gradually and maintain cohesion across their full length. Guest contributions are sparse and carefully placed, adding subtle layers that expand the album’s depth without shifting its central focus. The result is an immersive experience that remains consistent throughout.

Lyrically and thematically, the album explores decay, cycles of existence, and the erosion of worlds, ideas long familiar within Runemagick’s universe. These themes are presented in a measured manner, reinforcing the album’s meditative quality. The six core compositions form the foundation across all formats, while the CD and digital editions extend the material further, deepening the overall scope without altering its fundamental character.

“Cycle Of The Dying Sun (Dawn Of Ashen Realms)” functions as a natural progression from “Beyond The Cenotaph Of Mankind”, moving further into a stark and contemplative realm. It reflects an artist fully immersed in his own vocabulary, shaping an album that remains consistent, focused, and firmly rooted in the traditions that have defined Runemagick for decades.

Score: 8.0

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