Dronny Darko & Ugasanie Once Again Collude On An Oceanic Dark Ambient Masterpiece With ‘Dark Source Of The North’

One of my favorite thematic subjects for a Dark Ambient album is the vast, dark ocean and the menacing evils that lurk within its chaotic abyss. It’s even more fitting when two of Dark Ambient’s most accomplished artists collaborate for this type of setting and produce an all-out maritime nightmare. However, this is not the first time Dronny Darko and Ugasanie have joined forces on such an event, as they released the chaotically impressive ‘Arctic Gates’ back in 2019 on the Cryo Chamber label. Now, four years later, they are back with a follow-up album and it’s just as bleak and ominous as their first. ‘Dark Source Of The North’ is an aquatic ordeal that delivers a punishing array of soundscapes through an incessant void. The eight tracks contained within produce an otherworldly soundtrack of futile escapism and amaurotic malevolence.

“In Search Of An Object” wastes no time in submerging the listener in a vast, cold ocean surrounded by emptiness and horrifying seclusion. Deep drones, complimented by reverberated textures creates an overwhelming sensation of solitude. As the sound continues to flow and become more aggressive, this nightmarish scenario becomes inescapable. Opaque winds increase for a moment before subsiding with the end of the song. In the second track, “Anomaly”, frigid ocean currents crash against an unprotected shore, creating a sort of naturalistic dominance. Obscure sound effects commence, producing a repulsive sound, only enhanced by deep, droning textures. As the ocean waves subside, the faint abhorrence of distant thunderstorms display an inevitable conclusion of chaotic force and destruction. As the end of the track nears, industrialized chaos create an audible pandemonium before being overtaken once again by crashing waves on a desolate seashore. “In A Magnetic Field” begins with a sinister effect that modulates as if it’s in heavy rotation and being prepare for a destructive scenario. Space Ambient styled drones begin to increase in broad layers as various, creepy effects paint a vivid picture of apocalyptic proportions. “Presence” immediately thrusts into a collision course with an abysmal void with intense drones and arcane noises that are downright terrifying. At the peak of these sound encounters, they maintain their intensity for a while before collapsing into a single drone. Assorted effects are heard in the distance as if fleeing from an anarchic discord. The main drone also builds into a soothing atmosphere for the final few minutes of the song. “Contact” commences with a single drone that emulates a distant beacon, either providing an early warning or waywardly sounding off due to a malfunction. As it continues to fade, synth pads ascend onto the darkness with hints of obscure orchestrations and howling, digital winds. As panic begins to set in, inaudible vocalizations and elongated modulations paint a gloomy scenario of solitude. As the track nears completion, random jolts of high pitch sounds produce a peculiar sound akin to large drops of acid rain bouncing off of industrial material corroding away in a barren wasteland. “Consequences” is one of the shorter tracks on the album so it rushes in quicker than the other offerings and builds layers of destructive patterns within the first minute. Not to say it’s an all out audial assault, this track is masterfully arranged and sets the album up for a climactic ending with the remaining tracks. “Transition” begins with a deep, slightly distorted drone, as if a large vessel is passing by without warning. As the vessel draws near, the tones increase in volume and adds subtle soundscapes that are eerie but luminous. There is a lot of reverb usage in some of the effects, producing a colossal sound design that is beyond epic. The final track on this distressing album is “On The Other Side Of The Arctic Gates”. Instead of beginning with an ominous drone, bells toll in different ranges, symbolizing the traversing to calmer waters. Although many dark obstacles were observed and navigated along the way, the journey to the other side has turned out to be just as challenging. As the layers of aggressively sounding drones kick in, the sense of adventure continues down a dark path in the form of various soundscapes and dystopian-like effects. Proving that wastelands can also be aquatic, the forceful winds and soothing ocean waves at the end are a fitting finale for this esoteric and mysterious album.

Dronny Darko and Ugasanie have once again proven that their collaboration efforts produce top tier results. ‘Dark Source Of The North’ is a fantastic follow up to their 2019 ‘Arctic Gates’ album and if they choose to produce more albums with this same theme, I’d eagerly welcome it. The Cryo Chamber label always provides a solid platform for the best in cinematic Dark Ambient music and this solid release is right up there with the best of the best. If you’re a fan of sinister Dark Ambient music that ventures beyond time and space, definitely check out this album from the link below.

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Links:

https://cryochamber.bandcamp.com/album/dark-source-of-the-north

The Nebula Breviary – A Voyage Through The Black Hole With Taste Of Beer Records

I have lots of fun writing about my favorite labels in The Nebula Breviary column. Originally I intended for it to be a one-off publishing but due to the growth in the Dark Ambient and Dungeon Synth genres over the past few years, I plan to keep at it in order to showcase some of my favorites of both genres. For this particular publishing, I will feature ten exiting albums from the Taste Of Beer Records label. This up and coming label has produced a lot of exciting albums in both digital and physical formats and they continually deliver music from the tavern that surely appeals to an ever growing fan base. Thanks for reading this and I hope you enjoy these albums as much as I have.

1. Goblin Mage – Charms & Devilry

‘Charms & Devilry’ is an absorbing journey through enchanted forests, where mystical entities become your guide for captivating adventures. Minimalistic and soothing, these eight tracks present a light-hearted effort that elicits tones of mystic landscapes and rhythmic modulations that are part whimsical and part daring. Tracks such as “Strange Magick” and “Goblin Town” stand out as studious anthems that are memorable and truly representative of album as a whole. Recommended for fans of buoyant sounds and jaunty Dungeon Synth dirges.

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/charms-devilry

2. Helmet – Vanitas

The Medieval times were not always filled with gory battles and drama amongst royalty. When I think of the more ostentatious times, this is exactly the music that I envision being played. Relaxing melodies and soothing orchestrations are at the center of these simple, yet uniquely composed songs. With an eloquent tone that is reminiscent of lenitive landscapes and soft, breezy forests, ‘Vanitas’ is an entertaining effort that truly symbolizes the fulfilling life beyond the Keep and beyond the realms of battle. This will be a Dungeon Synth classic in the years to come.

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/vanitas

3. Vouivre – The Father Of Dragons-Glaurung

Talking about a beautiful cinematic effort, ‘The Father of Dragons-Glaurung’ could easily be a soundtrack to a Medieval-inspired action movie. This robust album features four long-players that produce a theatric blend of Dungeon Synth intonations and intoxicating orchestrations. Beautiful produced, one could easily create their own feudal adventure, as these tracks weave through dark landscapes and harrowing Middle Ages creativity. Epic, to say the least, Vouivre has provided the ultimate audial accompaniment that certainly does this genre proud. You definitely don’t want to sleep on this one.

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-father-of-dragons-glaurung

4. Mushrooms – Between The Moss And The Sky

‘Between The Moss And The Sky’ is a dainty little offering that resides in the Comfy Synth realm and it provides a playful antidote for the ears. I can imagine a rainforest in recovery, after the harshness of an autumn storm, where the raindrops faintly evaporate and the ground gives way to natural fungal growth. Content with its beautiful surroundings and exotic location off the hidden path, these tracks expand upon natures gift to mankind and the alluring endeavors that continue to evolve. Simple rhythms and dreamy synth leads will leave the listener mesmerized and wanting more.

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/between-the-moss-and-the-sky

5. Assorted Potions & Deep Gnome – Threadmage’s Curious Encounter With The Fae Folk

This is probably one of my favorite Comfy Synth albums of the last few years. Not entirely whimsical, these consoling canticles have a particular enchanting tone that takes a somberly approach on its delivery, instead of being outright quirky. To make it even better, there are a couple of cover songs that are mouthwatering takes on a few Cheryl Crow and Enya classics. If you enjoy the more consoling side of Dungeon Synth, then be sure to check out this amazing project and album.

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/threadmages-curious-encounter-with-the-fae-folk

6. Anadûnê – Durin, Father Of Dwarves

From the Elminster camp, Anadûnê presents a sharper, more focused effort that is dark, menacing and at times gothic in tone. The four long-players that make up ‘Durin, Father Of Dwarves’ are a true calling to the traditional Dungeon Synth sound and comes complete with rhythmic percussive elements and layers of intoxicating instrumentation. This is a journey that demands to be revisited time and time again, and is one for the ages. Listening to tracks like ‘The Hammer Of Aulë” and “I Wander Alone” gets me exited for endless Medieval endeavors and all of the imaginative tales that come with it. I’m a big fan of this project and recommend this to all of the daring souls that wish to embark on mystifying musical adventures.

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/durin-father-of-dwarves

7. Elminster & Meadow Grove – Winds Of Mages

Two of Dungeon Synth’s most prominent artists, Elminster & Meadow Grove have teamed up to present one of the ultimate collaboration projects of the genre. Two uniquely crafted artists, very distinct sounds and impeccable song writing on one mammoth of an album. ‘Winds Of Mages’ soars high and delivers a bold blend of darkness, magic and obscure electronic synths. Coherent modulations exude a capricious path of synth madness and haunting tales that need no narrative for understanding. As each track transparently flows into the next, it’s apparent that this is a high-scale output that needs a follow-up album (hint, hint). Another highly recommended album that is sure to get plenty of playing time in the foreseeable future.

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/winds-of-mages

8. The Toadstool Elf – The Toadstool Elf

‘The Toadstool Elf’ is a quaint, Comfy Synth offering that wondrously flows like a symphonic soundtrack of a mystical domain. With only five tracks and twenty two minute of playing time, there are heaps of entertaining, musical sections contained within to satisfy your whimsical needs. Boasting a dream-like production effort, there is a visible haze to these tracks, as if daydreaming of peaceful times, deep in a hidden forest of elves, mythical creatures and colorful landscapes. This is a serene album with enough harmonious sections to pique your interest.

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-toadstool-elf

9. Forlorn Swordsman – Old School Lo-Fi Dungeon Music

When it comes to Dungeon Synth – well music In general – I tend to resonate the most with lo-fi offerings that are raw, organic and in some cases, relatable to my emotional state. That being said, Forlorn Swordsman is right up my alley. Producing an hour long blend of Dungeon Synth and Comfy Synth, ‘Old School Lo-Fi Dungeon Music’ is not only aptly named, but in a sense, a completely dark & eerie experience. These tracks are not flimsily thrown together at all, as they are masterfully orchestrated with bits of melody and chaos – all at the same time. Standout tracks include “Cross The Sorrowfields”, “Dreams Of Old Times” and “Made Free By The Blade”. I hate that I missed out on the cassette version of this, as it would have sounded perfect on my old shoebox cassette player. At any rate, this is an exquisite release and it doesn’t get more lo-fi than this.

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com/album/old-school-lo-fi-dungeon-music

10. Onfang – Audible Mending

‘Audible Mending’ is a unique Comfy Synth offering that features dreamy vocal performances, tranquil synth effects and a song called “The Last Narwhal”. How can you not like an album that feature a song about the rare, Arctic sea creature? Containing six electrifying songs, they each stand out in their own way and envelop all of the traditional Dungeon Synth aesthetics. Haunting and whimsical, this album produces an array of emotions that extends beyond Medieval realms and encapsulating forests while allowing the listen to sink into their own imagination. Another great release from Taste Of Beer Records!

Links:

https://tasteofbeerrecords.bandcamp.com

https://instagram.com/tasteofbeerrecords?igshid=NDk5N2NlZjQ=

Psyclopean Conceives A Psychedelic Soundtrack For Realms Of The Unknown On ‘Nostalgiamancer’

As one of the harbingers of Psychedelic Dungeon Synth music, Psyclopean has developed a passion for producing an ominous blend of nostalgic Dungeon Synth and curious musical obscurities that paints a cinematic landscape of futuristic remembrance. On the projects latest album, ‘Nostalgiamancer’, Psyclopean reaches deep within the psyche of wistful modulations to deliver an album worth being called a soundtrack for pneumatic endeavors. Over an hours worth of retentive musical excursions (including two epic-sized tracks), this album is one meditate to, as well as to exercise one’s own thought patterns for eternal cleansing.

The album opener, “Hypnosynchromystical Transfiguration” is nearly sixteen and a half minutes of transcending electronic music that is exactly what’s needed to commence this hypnotizing journey. Beginning with retrospective synth effects and a short spoken-word narrative, this track quickly sets a tone for magical and enchanting adventures. Hisses, crackles and pops are some familiar production tactics to give this a nostalgic vibe and thoughts of yesteryear primarily consume the listeners thoughts. Soon after, psychedelic sequences take over and thicken the overall sound, inputting a dreamy sense of melody in the process. As one part flows into the next, we are presented with an arrange of instrumentation, such as acoustic guitar and trance-like percussive elements. As the song seamlessly continues, each phase flows perfectly into the next, allowing the listeners to create their own adventures that match the serene harmonies within. From faster cadence sections to whimsical compositions and exerting in between, this track is such a majestic offering. Up next is “The Uncanny Valley”. At just under four minutes in length, this is one of the shorter songs. However, where it falls short in playing time, it’s made up for in the masterful melodies and impressive use of tracking to make the most out of the lead sections. Beginning with a war-like pounding of the drums, this song transparently molds into several influences before closing in a sea of spacey bliss. “A Walk Among The Ruins” is probably one of the most beautiful songs in Psyclopean’s entire discography. A soothing synth melody continuously plays in the background while haunting orchestrations flow higher in the mix. Creating a landscape of melancholic passion, it’s hard not to elicit an emotional response. Toward the end, clean synth leads breathe new life into the song, as if one is in a deep meditative state or whisked away in a territory of astral projection, where distant stars slowly move closer within reach. “Noble Sons Of Celephais” is more of a Dungeon Synth track in the traditional synth, relying on bold Medieval incantations rather than vivid visions of the imagination. The mesmerizing synth leads mesh well with the background ambience and occasional percussive spots, as there are some massive theatric moments during this five minute masterpiece. “Life Is A Weird Fiction (Which We Narrate To Ourselves)” is the ultimate reputation of what this album stands for and is pretty much an adventure within the adventure. With a playing time of nearly twenty six minutes, there is a lot to uncover in this relic of a story. As the tape hisses commence, so do the dreamy synth leads that are reminiscent of classic symthwave effects. Various electronic patterns are synchronized in a way that shouldn’t work, but this song quickly comes together as a unified musical wonder. There are a lot of ambient patterns, as well as Berlin School sequences that are audible throughout, and it’s all arranged so sensationally, that it’s hard to tell when the various sections of this song begin and end. The assorted tones and effects represent an arrangement of colors and shapes that are dominate visuals for this audial escapade. As the shapes and colors bend and shift, the music takes shape in hypnotic fashion, ensuring that nothing else is interfering with this sonic journey. The final song on the album is “Court Of The Somber Queen” and it introduces some actual singing, slightly distorted by wavy effects. Another short piece, this is a very appealing way to close out this psychedelic experience. Complete with soothing synths and acoustic guitar passages, I get the sense that this is the song that awakens the soul and brings a sense of reality back to the listener.

Psyclopean continues to outdo previous efforts with something bolder, more creative and enjoyable than the last. As a big fan of Psyclopean’s back catalog, I can proudly say, this is the strongest effort yet from this project. From epic song lengths to a variety of tones and effects, ‘Nostalgiamancer’ is the ultimate listening experience for those that enjoy a bit of variety in your Dungeon Synth music. Head on over to the link below and down this album and don’t forget to experience the back catalog as well. This year is already starting off with a bang, thanks to enchanted albums like this one.

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Links:

https://altrusiangrace.bandcamp.com/album/nostalgiamancer