Le Grand Guignol absolutely changed my perception on what music can be, let alone the boundaries of metal. I post this simply hoping that more people can find this band and have the solitary, expanding experience "The Great Maddening" (their only release barring Vindsal's "Imperium Grotesque") can provide. The album is through and through bizarre. It comes off, at times, as more of an art project than metal. The composers here have done something brilliant that I've yet to find in orchestral black metal (DO NOT think Dimmu). There is a distinct groove, a power and flow that keeps the album progressing that I find most black metal loses in its monotony. Many of the songs are sexually charged in the strangest way and the vocals are beyond anything I've heard concerning black metal. The highs rival some of Vektor's work and there is a visceral emotion you just don't see elsewhere. Its a glaring fucking hole in the future of metal knowing that this project will never surface again. I would hope such attention to this release could inspire others to create or share other bands that have a similar sound. After literal years of searching, I've yet to find anything similar. If anyone could help me find more music along these lines, I would be eternally appreciative.

Cease,
Obscure Phoenix

I agree on all accounts. This album is a milestone of progressive symphonic extreme metal. It certainly has its very own style. I highly recommend this record. If you haven't listened to it, you have missed out on something truly unique.

To me they kind of sound like a slower and more progressive (i.e. mandering) version of Bal-Sagoth - which isn't necessarily a bad thing. Although, the neo-classical elements of their music are probably less developed (compared to Bal-Sagoth.)

I loved Bal Sagoth.

first time i've heard of this band, and 10 minutes in to the album, i think it has a lot in common with tvangeste's firestorm

I've never really managed to get into this band, I like parts of songs etc, but their chaotic approach to music reminds me of Unexpect

Literally thought you were talking about the Naked City album at first.
You're correct, though.