Noctule, the solo project of former Svalbard vocalist Serena Cherry, is releasing its second album, 'Extinguish Thy Flame', on September 25. The album deviates from traditional black metal themes, focusing instead on the fantasy game Elden Ring.
Cherry stated that 'Extinguish Thy Flame' is a 'thank you' to Elden Ring, a game she attributes to 'saving her life' during a period of depression. She found purpose and strength in the game's challenging world, which she began playing just before its release in 2022.
The album's tracks are each named after different Elden Ring bosses, chosen from over 200 in the game. Cherry also incorporates parallels between the game's lore and her own life into the lyrics, such as connecting with the character Malenia's defiance and loyalty, and Morgott's experience of being cast out.
Noctule's debut album, 'Wretched Abyss', released during the COVID-19 pandemic, paid homage to the game Skyrim. Progress on 'Extinguish Thy Flame' was made during Svalbard's world tours between 2023 and 2025, with Cherry noting the creative control offered by her solo project.