Johnny Hagel, former bassist and co-writer of Tiamat and Sundown, has launched a new solo project under the moniker Ashen Sun.

The self-described "requiem for fading empires and dying stars," is a dark gothic rock entity that weaves together cold electronic soundscapes with '90s-inspired melancholy and cinematic textures.

Emerging quietly in 2024 from Hagel's solitude, the music exhibits an air of isolation and inner decay.

Hagel describes Ashen Sun as a project born from his personal experiences with isolation and decay, drawing inspiration from "fading empires" and "dying stars." The sonic landscape he creates is characterized by its use of '90s-inspired melancholy, cold-wave synths, and cinematic textures.

This deliberate choice eschews the pursuit of modernity for its own sake.

On March 27, 2026, Ashen Sun will release their debut album "Velarium" via Desert Plain Records.

The six-track collection includes songs like "Black Thoughts," "Desperate Vows," and "An Ever Turning Wheel." Fans can pre-order the album now through Ashen Sun's Shopify store.

A look at the artwork and tracklisting for Velarium reveals a focus on gothic rock and gothic metal elements, further solidifying Hagel's connection to these genres.

The album promises to be an immersive sonic experience that draws listeners into its dark world of fading empires and dying stars.

Fans interested in following Crimson Glory can do so on Spotify by checking the artist's profile now.