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The avant-death metal enigma that is Imperial Triumphant is closing out the year with a massive project: a 96-page softcover graphic novel titled Merkurius Gilded.
Known for their cryptic, theatrical presence and sonic explorations of urban decay, the New York City trio is finally giving fans a deeper dive into their elaborate world. The graphic novel promises to fully flesh out the themes, lyrics, and intricate artwork the band is famous for.
Written by Imperial Triumphant's own Zachary Ezrin and illustrated by visual artist Halil Mete, Merkurius Gilded will be released on December 5th via the band's Vile Luxe Press.
You can pre-order the graphic novel now here
As a bonus for getting in early, all pre-orders will come with an exclusive Caduceus gold patch in addition to the book.
Zachary Ezrin shared his excitement about the release, commenting on the deep personal investment: "This is a very special project for me as it's something that has taken me 5 years to complete. I look forward to sharing this vision and story with all of you. I hope you enjoy it as I enjoyed creating it."
Illustrator Halil Mete echoed the sentiment, calling the collaboration a dream come true for an extreme metal fan: “Bringing their dystopian world to life through my art, guided by the intensity of their music, was an unforgettable creative experience that will forever mark a milestone in my career.”
Merkurius Gilded synopsis: "In the city of New Colossus, a lower class worker is seduced by high society luxury lifestyle and ends up uncovering the true dark secrets of the 'greatest city on earth.' Will she infiltrate and destroy their corruption or succumb to the pleasures of its swarming opulence?"
This new graphic novel arrives on the heels of the band's sixth full-length album, Goldstar, which dropped on March 21, 2025.
The album was hailed by critics, with Anthony Fantano of The Needle Drop calling it "their best album to date." Goldstar delivered another intense, urban fever dream, solidifying the trio's place as one of metal's most unique forces.
Now, Merkurius Gilded becomes a pivotal part of their sprawling, stylistically varied legacy.
If you want to catch the spectacle live, Imperial Triumphant is currently on the road. Here are the remaining dates:
Oct 16: Lyon, FR — Le Transbordeur
Oct 17: Paris, FR — L’Olympia
Oct 19: Nantes, FR — Stereolu
Oct 21: Bristol, UK — Crane Bristol
Oct 22: London, UK — Shepherd's Bush Empire
Oct 23: Manchester, UK — O2 Ritz
Dec 12: New York, NY — Jazz from Hell Festival
Imperial Triumphant | Vile Luxe Publishing
