The fourth album from atmospheric doomsters AVA INFERI is entitled Onyx, and has been scheduled for a February 14th, 2011 European release (February 15th in North America).

You can now download the track 'The Living End', a full song from the Portuguese / Norwegians' new opus, at this location.

Listen to the song below:

'The Living End'

"Before Dan (Swanö) started the mix/mastering process I had 3 albums or eras of reference in my mind that I wanted the album to sound similar to", guitarist Rune Eriksen comments. "I wanted to steer a bit away from the obvious sounds that this day and age is craving for (in certain circles) and go for something a bit more vintage, something with a bit more "80s bite". I mentioned FIELDS OF THE NEPHILIM (Elyzium), BLACK SABBATH (Born Again) and early DIO as reasonable reference points. That was basically it. And we wanted it huge! No need to say these keywords were more than enough to trigger Mr. Swanö, as even the first test samples I received bore witness of something out of the ordinary. Sails set for Dominion!

"I feel that the main ideas, compositions and the "ethereal aspects" on Onyx are highly matured, almost as if it is something elevated and sacral (despite its hypnotizing dimness!).

"Something I only can imagine the thundering Bell at the bottom of Dâmbovi?a would be able to spew out on a restless full-moon night... and isn't that the whole point with these magical arts really? To reach out and grasp for something otherworldly and mold it into sounds, to present something of an eternal spark? Well, it definitely is for me. Any band failing on a spiritual level would go unnoticed by these ears. Absit invidia.

"I guess it's time to let loose the first sounds into the ether by now.... so hereby 'The Living End'. A 80s (goth) influenced song full of passionate mystery and misery, whom we see as the perfect portal into this diverse album with its immediate approach. In closing I'd like to use Dan Swanös statement regarding this album, as I feel honored to receive these compliments from a legend such as himself."

"Onyx is one of the best albums I have mixed so far. The unique blend of gothic rock and fierce heavy metal just resonates with me on the highest level. A bit like KATE BUSH singing on 'Headless Cross'. Passion and darkness in perfect harmony. I am truly stunned!" - Dan Swanö

Onyx will feature the following tracklisting:

'Onyx'

'The Living End'

'A Portal'

'((Ghostlights))'

'Majesty'

'The Heathen Island'

'By Candlelight & Mirrors'

'Venice in Fog'

The Onyx release parties:

Saturday, February 19 - Side-B - Benavente, Portugal

Saturday, February 26 - Vagos CER - Aveiro, Portugal

Saturday, March 5 - Fnac Algarve Shopping (special semi-acoustic showcase) & Marginalia Bar - Portimao, Portugal