I’ve listened to it over 100 times. Every element on this album feels stripped down to only what is essential. All the ingredients matter. The lyrics add another fantastic layer to this amazing composition.
Each song on this album feels essential and takes you on a journey that feels unique but very Alcest. They have taken some of the nuanced song writing and production from Shelter and layered upon it more progressive elements. I have to say that Winterhalter's drums on this record are amazing and incredibly expressive. They add a unique energy and vibrancy to this set of songs. This is one of my favorite records of 2016.
It’s too bad that Shelter often gets overlooked in Alcest’s discography. Although it lacks some of the dramatic dynamic shifts of their other records it makes up for it in subtlety. If you listen to this record with headphones you will be rewarded with layers of sound and rich instrumentation. The heart of this record is melody, many of which could be lullabies. Neige is a master of melodies and this record is melody at its best.
This is the album that introduced me to Alcest. I discovered it in the spring while living in Oregon. You can hear the light pouring out of the guitars on this record and I remember walking outside in the Northwest and feeling that same light from the nature around me. I have loved Alcest ever since.
This is Alcests most organically cohesive and musically dense release yet with an emphasis on melodic exploration, showcasing the spiritual struggle in a harsh world.
Also the percussion on these tracks is incredible.
The sounds on this record are diversely textured and have been woven together expertly. This is the most multifaceted, dimensional, and melodically dense Wolves in the Throne Room release yet – it even sounds like a band enjoying playing together.
