A charming and nostalgic release. I especially like all the various little sound effects which differ from song to song. The atmosphere includes a slight haze of the instruments which mirrors the feeling of remembering fond and distant memories. Despite its relatively short length there are all sorts of adventures to be had during this small excursion into verdant dreamlands.
One could think old folk motifs and dungeon synth go hand in hand like a spear needs its tip but there is a shockingly low amount of the Wardruna style of ambient folk leaning into the dungeon realms. This definitely is such a release, melding the foreboding, constant drone of the dungeons with pumping and hypnotic war-like drum hits. The traditional instruments are complemented by an ambient soundscape, the combination in its entirety seems so organic, effortless and works marvellously.
The newest Daedric Chamber starts off quite raw and uncompromising but nevertheless possesses a certain beauty which becomes more apparent during the small breaks of the torrential riffs. It's only three tracks but with more than a few calmer interludes of guitar and keyboard leading to a diverse and engrossing experience.
The first song instantly sucked me through a darkened maelstrom where peril and riches beckon. Danger awaits after every stone corner in this little dungeon adventure. The equivalent of pressing onwards with no health potions left and the equipment durability approaching 0 with no save point in sight. The song titles complete the erratic and nervous atmosphere found on this EP.
Every album that starts with Final Fantasy character creation music already secured a place in my heart. Incredibly charming and the instruments complement each other really well. This release in its entirety is such a cohesive and competently crafted album. Meandering through verdant mountain forests, partaking in the royal ball or scrolling through the abilities tab in the pause menu, this album has a bit of everything.
Beautiful progressions with a delightful sound palette. Like closing your eyes before a day promising a blue sky, mighty feasts and adventure with the best companions. I especially like how the arpeggiated chords sound, in combination with the steady background melody it makes for a pleasant and mellow listen, not only during the Easter holidays!
The split starts off with a rather longingly wistful and synth song before an unexpected and quite abyssal black metal song takes the stage. As cheerful as the last Benthos song was destructive, Water Nymph starts off whimsical and joyful. If not for the novelty of the combination of styles, this is indeed an eclectic release with quite a few unforeseen musical developments.
Beautifully crafted album in the vein of the old masters with a heartfelt and wistful note to it. Clad in a wonderfully olden sound, Vanishing Amulet manages to strike a tragic and impactful chord full of longing, a feeling akin to dwelling by a dying fire between cold stone walls. A deeply felt and profound album not to be missed by anyone inclined towards romantic wampyrism.
Contrary to what one might expect when passing through the cold winter mist, Sounds of Winter starts quite bombastic and dynamic. I immediately felt the Old Mountain King's presence while lingering in his grand halls of ice and frozen spires. The compositions borrow elements from old masters like Endoki Forest and the early dungeon Burzum works while unfolding their full potential through crystal clear and icy sounding instruments. A minimalistic and meditative display among snow-covered firs.
A spectral and enveloping experience makes itself felt throughout the entire demo. Not only that but a streak of certain unease and nervousness accompanies all the songs as well. Overall this makes for an ominous and foreboding release.
