Symphonic Metal/Gothic Rock Band CARMERIA Releases New Album Ex Cathedra, Alongside Visualizer For "Phantasma"

Australia's CARMERIA present the third studio album Ex Cathedra, an enthralling offering that showcases the next evolution in the band's sound.Released independently today, the new full length centers around finding resilience and joy despite suffering encountered as part of the human experience.

Commenting on the release of Ex Cathedra, singer/songwriter/producer Jordan von Grae shares:
"Personally, Ex Cathedra feels like the culmination of my journey as an artist. As a band, it feels like the record in which we have found our identity. 

At its heart, this album is a tribute to perseverance in the face of hardship; to the notion that ‘this too shall pass,’ and the understanding that while we cannot always choose our circumstances, we have the power to choose how we respond to them.

Above all, it is a celebration of our capacity to live fully alongside suffering; to love despite loss, to find belonging in one another, and to find solace in the knowledge that while pain may be an inevitable part of the human experience, the beauty of our lives need not be diminished by it." 


On the meaning behind "Phantasma," Jordan von Grae reveals:
"Phantasma explores the ways in which guilt, shame and regret can distort our perception of ourselves. While those feelings can encourage reflection and positive change, they can also become destructive when we allow ourselves to be consumed by the things we cannot change, or accept blame for things that we were never responsible for.

Additionally, 'Phantasma' serves as a reminder not to allow the suffering of the past to eclipse the joy that may still exist in the future, and argues that resilience can sometimes require forgiveness, including forgiveness of oneself. Despite its thematic tone, this song was incredibly fun to put together, and I feel like it perfectly encapsulates the album's sonic philosophy of 'Misery you can dance to.'"

Ex Cathedra was principally written by CARMERIA singer/songwriter/producer Jordan von Grae. Zahija composed “Ex Cathedra,” while Bobrov made additional songwriting contributions to “Wings,” “Phantasma,” “A Rose Divine” and “Echoes of the Dream.”

The recording lineup consists of Jordan von Grae on lead vocals, harmonies and choirs, as well as programming for keys, synths, orchestra and drums; Jerry Zahija on lead and rhythm guitars and solos; and Emma Louise Nagy on bass, acoustic guitars and additional vocals. All drums, keys, synths and orchestration were programmed by von Grae, with the exception of the orchestra on “Ex Cathedra,” which was programmed by Zahija and Robert Ianni.

Ex Cathedra was mixed by Jordan von Grae and mastered by Miro Mastering. The album and single covers were designed by Jordan von Grae, illustrated by Hassane and coordinated by Mishka Bobrov. Album photography was completed by Matt Bartolo.

In 2026, CARMERIA return with their third full-length album, Ex Cathedra, a record that expands the band’s established symphonic and gothic foundations with a stronger melodic rock influence. Centred on the idea that suffering is an unavoidable part of life but despair is not, the album represents a further evolution in CARMERIA’s songwriting, production and visual identity while remaining rooted in the qualities that have defined the band from the beginning: melody, storytelling, independence and connection.

CARMERIA is:

Jordan von Grae — Vocals
Jerry Zahija — Guitars
Mishka Bobrov — Keytar
Emma Louise Nagy — Bass

Connect with CARMERIA:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarmeriaMusic
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CARMERIA
Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/carmeria
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@CarmeriaMusic
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/carmeria