Infernal (Phideaux album)

Infernal is the eighth studio album by American progressive rock artist Phideaux, released in 2018. It is the final installment in the conceptual "Ghost Story" sequence, which began with the 2006 album Fiendish.

Infernal concludes the overarching narrative exploring themes of childhood trauma, memory, loss, and the supernatural. Musically, the album maintains Phideaux's signature sound, characterized by lush orchestrations, intricate arrangements, strong melodies, and dynamic shifts between quiet, introspective passages and powerful, dramatic crescendos.

The album continues the use of a large ensemble, featuring multiple vocalists, including Linda Pitmon, Rich Hutchins, and Valerie Gracious, alongside Phideaux Xavier himself. Instrumentation includes guitars, keyboards, bass, drums, and various orchestral elements, creating a rich and cinematic sonic landscape.

Infernal received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its ambitious scope, musical complexity, and emotional depth, and its fitting conclusion to the "Ghost Story" saga. It is considered by many fans to be a highlight in Phideaux's discography.