Published: February 11, 2025
In Thrall to Heresy will be available in digital, CD, and limited edition 2LP vinyl formats . Fans can pre-order the digital version via Bandcamp , while CDs and vinyl can be pre-ordered directly from the band .
Psychedelic progressive metal quartet Shepherds of Cassini is set to make a triumphant return with their long-awaited third full-length album, In Thrall to Heresy , scheduled for release on February 21, 2025 . Marking their first studio release in nearly a decade, this album sees the band exploring deeper sonic landscapes while retaining their signature fusion of crushing riffs, ethereal psychedelia, and intricate melodic interplay .
As a first glimpse into the album’s vast soundscapes, the band has released the lead single, "Red Veil," now available on Bandcamp and all major streaming platforms . Fans can also experience the track through an immersive visualizer on YouTube .
Recorded and mixed by longtime collaborator Dave Rhodes at The Chapel Studio in early 2024 and mastered by Luke Finlay of Primal Mastering , In Thrall to Heresy is a testament to Shepherds of Cassini’s evolution and renewed creative energy. The album blends progressive metal’s technical prowess with psychedelic soundscapes and exotic, otherworldly textures , solidifying their status as one of New Zealand’s most innovative metal acts.
Adding a unique visual component to the release, the album artwork features hand-painted pieces and custom lettering by Moonroot , a newly commissioned artist for this project.
In Thrall to Heresy will be available in digital, CD, and limited edition 2LP vinyl formats . Fans can pre-order the digital version via Bandcamp , while CDs and vinyl can be pre-ordered directly from the band .
Recorded and mixed by longtime collaborator Dave Rhodes at The Chapel Studio in early 2024 and mastered by Luke Finlay of Primal Mastering , In Thrall to Heresy is a testament to Shepherds of Cassini’s evolution and renewed creative energy. The album blends progressive metal’s technical prowess with psychedelic soundscapes and exotic, otherworldly textures , solidifying their status as one of New Zealand’s most innovative metal acts.
Adding a unique visual component to the release, the album artwork features hand-painted pieces and custom lettering by Moonroot , a newly commissioned artist for this project.
In Thrall to Heresy will be available in digital, CD, and limited edition 2LP vinyl formats . Fans can pre-order the digital version via Bandcamp , while CDs and vinyl can be pre-ordered directly from the band .
Manufacturing for physical editions is currently underway, ensuring fans can get their hands on the album in multiple formats.
Formed in 2012 , Shepherds of Cassini is a psychedelic progressive metal band from Auckland, New Zealand , renowned for their atmospheric, turbulent, and expansive sound. The band’s lineup includes:
Omar Al-Hashimi – Drums
Vitesh Bava – Bass
Felix Lun – Electric Violin
Brendan Zwaan – Guitar, Keys, Vocals
Blending elements of progressive metal, doom, and psychedelic rock , the band’s sound is characterized by hypnotic instrumental interplay, soaring violin melodies, and dynamic shifts between serene passages and crushing intensity.
After releasing two critically acclaimed albums— Shepherds of Cassini (2013) and Helios Forsaken (2015)—the band went on hiatus in 2016. Their return in 2023 reignited a creative spark, culminating in the new album, In Thrall to Heresy .
