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,” released 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 .
Listen to “Red Veil” via YouTube player below:
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” is available in digital, CD, and limited edition 2xLP vinyl formats . Fans can order the digital version via Bandcamp , while CDs and vinyl can be pre-ordered directly from the band .
Purchase the album here: https://www.shepherdsofcassini.com/purchase
Manufacturing for physical editions is currently underway, ensuring fans can get their hands on the album in multiple formats.
— About Shepherds of Cassini —
Formed in 2012 , Shepherds of Cassini is a Psychedelic Progressive Metal band from Auckland, New Zealand , renowned for their atmospheric, turbulent, and expansive sound.
Lineup:
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.”
[…] Stream the single “Red Veil“ […]