I will never seize to be amazed at the amount of energy and focus that Dungeon Synth artist ingrain into their craft. While keeping true to the classic Dungeon Synth sound, acoustic instruments, soundscapes, other genres and dark ambience add layers of transparent value to the genre while keeping it fresh and innovative. Also, the fact that minimalism creates such a massive distinction is fascinating to witness. One artist that is certain to grab the listeners attention with a minimalistic approach to cinematic excellence is Mørk Hest. Solidifying his mainstay in the Dungeon Synth community with the engaging ‘Conspiracy Of Angels’, we find soothing compositions with theatrical build ups and alluring sustainment that is captivating throughout the entire album.
Mørk Hest explores an assortment of musical techniques on this album, but on the tenacious opener, “March Of Iron”, we hear a bombastic percussive segment that as powerful as it is poised. With mild reverberations and a constant rhythm, this is a style that sets the mood for Medieval tales and enchanting anthems. “A Dream Unfinished” commences with soft, chant-like intonations before dreamy synths take over and illicit arrangements alter the emotional stance of the album. “Dead Calling” continues the dive towards darkness as grim synth effects emit a gloomy and subjective vibe. Even though the tone alters several times, there is no question that this is a huge cinematic effort and the power of the ancients is in full effect. “Chatter Of War” starts with an uplifting cadence as illusory synths play a scale of elegant notes that lead into a haunting melody. “Knight’s Last Conquest” is one of the most decadent songs on the album and is of soundtrack-like quality that could easily be heard on a dark fantasy film. “Divinity Of A Night’s Eclipse” takes a turn toward a darkened abyss as a Dark Ambient style drone leads the charge in this ethereal hymn. Ominous vocals are featured as well and provide gothic overtones to this otherwise eerie offering. “Echo Of A Thousand Lost” contains vibrant orchestrations that are intended to calm the soul, especially since the precious few tracks created a sharp descent into a blackened realm. Next up is the tranquil, “Harper’s Ferry”. Including various reverberated soundscapes, this tracks has an underlying melody that is reminiscent of Renaissance-era musical endeavors and contains a trance-like quality that gives it an extra sense of depth. “Perilous Journey” epitomizes the fantasy synth sound with inspiriting keys and a gentle production value that diffuses the minimalistic setting. The title track, “Conspiracy Of Angels” employs a calming synthwave style with looping notes and a gentle harmony that is reminiscent of a daybreak setting, where life begins to take shape at a relevant pace and ataractic appeal. The final track on the album is “Wounded Spear”. Continuing in the same mesmerizing fashion as the previous track, this swan song provides an alleviating sense of ease, as peaceful ventures overtake the dark descent heard previously. This is such a beautiful and emotional way to end this album that you don’t quite want it to end.
Mørk Hest has accomplished an amazing feat of musical proportions by creating the consummate Dungeon Synth album. Although this is more of a orchestral and cinematic endeavor that the traditional sounds of Dungeon Synth, there is no denying the influence of the aforementioned. Utilizing space but dreamy vocal chants, soothing percussion, and an array of synth effects, ‘Conspiracy Of Angels’ is a fantastic album that should be heard to be appreciated. If you’ve not listened to this riveting album yet, please click on the link below and support this impressionable artist.
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