Finnish heavy doom outfit OCCULT MASTER has announced the release of their self-titled debut album, due August 14th, 2026 via Inverse Records. The band has unveiled the first single, ‚Island of Leper‘, a progressive doom epic now available on all major streaming platforms.Finnish heavy doom band OCCULT MASTER is preparing to make a significant mark on the international doom metal landscape with the release of their self-titled debut album, scheduled for August 14th, 2026 through Inverse Records. Founded in 2012 in Oulu, Finland, the band initially operated in the heavy rock and doom space before a 2020 lineup change reshaped their sound into something faster, more rhythmic, and considerably more complex.
To herald the arrival of the record, OCCULT MASTER has released the debut single ‚Island of Leper‘, composed and lyrically crafted by guitarist and vocalist Ari Eskola. The track is described by the band as a contemplative, multi-part progressive metal epic tracing the sorrowful journey of two former lovers struck by leprosy, who reunite on an island colony and find a final, haunting fulfilment together. The single is available now across all major streaming services.
The self-titled album spans nine tracks, including ‚Heavy Metal Madness‘, ‚Lucifer’s Henchman‘, and ‚Ground of the Damned‘, showcasing a range that moves from full-throttle metal blasting to quiet, eerie musical landscapes. The record was recorded by drummer Jussi Risto, with mixing and mastering handled by Kimmo Lukkari, who also provided the cover artwork for the single. Album cover art was created by Jarno Vesa.
OCCULT MASTER features Ari Eskola on guitars and vocals, Toni Mäki on bass and backing vocals, and Jussi Risto on drums. The band draws deep inspiration from classic heavy metal of the 1970s and 1980s, delivering songs in a direct, no-nonsense style rooted in dark themes and atmospheric depth. CD pre-orders are currently available through Inverse Records.