This album has been in my review queue for a long time and I’m so excited to finally be able to share my thoughts on this unique and triumphant effort. Many times when Dungeon Synth fuses with aspects of other genres, the traditional essence of the music takes a back seat to a more modern approach of genre melding. However, that’s not quite the case with Skuggkonungen’s mystical offering, ‘Det Glömda Landet’. Eight esoteric offerings of synthwave influenced Dungeon Synth produce a propitious atmosphere that will haunt the various era’s of influential realms
Album opener, “Äventyrarnas Brunn” dabbles in the territory of Dark Ambient before a quaint Dungeon Synth melody bursts through the bleak foundations and extends a harmonic dimension of lush keyboard melodies. Synthwave effects seamlessly enter the fold and takes this track to levels beyond musical imagination. The buildup of synth leads are undeniably refreshing and this is just the beginning of a hauntingly beautiful album. “Adralei” commences with ominous effects and begrudging background hisses while devilish pads seem to infiltrate at will. Somber Medieval leads are introduced and have a retrospective feel to it. This track boasts a strong refrain of good versus evil as dismal tones are crafted to blend transparently with light-hearted harmonies. “Lärkdal” quickly blasts an eloquent synth lead that is airy and peaceful. Comfy Synth styled intonations create a dream-like state and the layers of abating refrain is charming. Next up is the hypnotic, “Gråskägg”. Elongated synth effects are used to produce an environment of retro gaming influences and nostalgic characterizations. As the leads come in massing a grandiose sound, it slowly begins to fade, preparing you for the next suspenseful song. “Riddare Av Hella” begins with a slightly reverberated synth chop that continually loops in a light cadence. Menacing effects establish an eerie setting and vocalized sounds add a touch of cinematic elegance. “Thursagash Grymkäft” contains percussive elements atop a blissful synth lead that is reminiscent of an early morning dawn amplified by fog and drizzling mist. This is definitely a track to get lost into – if it were only a bit longer to enjoy it’s mesmerizing affect. Next up is the ghostly incantation, “Dödsdrömmarens Sista Vila”. The way that the main keyboard loop interacts with the melodic effects is completely enthralling. Psychedelic styled synthwave sounds establish an alluring dirge that is sure to garner repeated listens. The final track on the album is the grimly arousing title track, “Det Glömda Landet”. This spooky offering seems like a mix of random effects and digitized modulations, but is more like a bleak anthem of terror to the point of no return. It’s almost like an unforeseen evil lurks around every corner but predicting when that will be, will create a serious dose of anxiety.
This is another fantastic album for the Dungeon Synth community, especially for those that like an expanded sound with a no holds barred aspect – with regards to styles and influences from other genres. Skuggkonungen has laid a foundation of synthwave influenced Dungeon Synth and ‘Det Glömda Landet’ is the fascinating results. I’m really impressed with this release and I’m most certain that you will be too. Please click on the link below and support this amazing project.
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