French philosophic post-black metallers Decline Of The I will emerge with their fifth studio album titled Wilhelm on 14 February 2025 via Agonia Records. The band unveils the music video for the album's first single, "L' Alliance Des Rats", featuring guest vocals from T.C. (Regarde Les Hommes Tomber) and Vestal (Merrimack).
Wilhelm builds on the foundation of Johannes and adds a more framed dimension; a rigour, a backbone. "Ethics demand an internal code. Loops, repetitions, the relentless nature of law, all run through its five tracks, spanning over 45 minutes", comments AK. "It blends abrasive, avant-garde black metal with numerous samples, as well as elements of electro and industrial music. A constrained dive into the angst of ethics."
Decline Of The I is a combination of multifaceted, post-black metal and exploratory lyrics, that dwell on topics of existential philosophy. Originating from France (Paris, Île-de-France), the band was created by AK, who descends from a rich portfolio of past and ongoing acts (including Vorkreist, Merrimack, The Order Of Apollyon, Neo Inferno 262, Malhkebre and Diapsiquir). Decline Of The I is his most personal endeavour yet. The band's first three albums were inspired by the works of French surgeon and neurologist, Henri Laborit. Wilhelm pursues a different approach, based on the output of Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard, and marks the second instalment of a new trilogy, started by Johannes in 2021. Link
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