Angelcrypt

Angelcrypt is a Maltese metal group, active since 1997, associated with melodic death metal, death metal and melodic power/thrash metal. The project is led by Shawn Mizzi, who founds the band at 15 and remains its only continuous member through later line-up changes. It evolves from a garage band into a longer-running metal act, with a style that shifts as personnel changes but often returns to melody-led writing and aggressive vocals.

Current and notable members

At one stage the group narrows to Shawn Mizzi on guitars and Neil Farrugia on vocals before expanding again. A later line-up includes Shawn Mizzi on guitars, Neil Farrugia on vocals, Campos Gellel on guitars, Jean Cutajar on bass and Keiston Busuttil on drums. Neil Farrugia studies music, sound recording and production, writes lyrics and contributes to composition, while also providing the band’s harsher vocal style. Campos Gellel brings experience from Arachnid, Martyrium and Angel Blade, and his interest in neo-classical metal helps reintroduce harmonies and melodies into the band’s sound. Jean Cutajar supplies the bass part and is described as an experienced musician from other bands. Keiston Busuttil is a veteran drummer whose playing and personality help hold the group together.

Style and releases

The band’s later material is described as returning to its roots in melodic power/thrash metal mixed with “deathish” vocals. One named release, Eternal Conquest, is recorded by Steve Lombardo and issued as a free download through iTunes, the band’s website and social networks. The group is also working on a full-length album and posts video podcast episodes under the title Into the world of Angelcrypt.

Live activity and wider work

Shawn Mizzi plays guitar from the age of 13, teaches guitar, performs at major metal festivals in Malta, records in various studios and plays overseas alongside international metal bands. Angelcrypt is nominated for best heavy metal band at the Malta Music Awards. Mizzi also organises Shellshock Metal Fest, a local metal festival that features German thrash band Contradiction as headliners. The band also plans overseas shows and promotes itself through local rock radio, an official website, a YouTube channel and social media.