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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Links:

https://skuggkonungen.bandcamp.com/album/det-gl-mda-landet

First off, I’d like to apologize for my lack of content lately. It’s always been my intention to publish one or two reviews a week. Unfortunately, “day job” commitments as of late have created a hinderance toward that goal. Nevertheless, I continue to drown my ears with excellent music so when the opportunity presents itself, I’m always ready to discuss. That being said, one album that has been circulating in my playlist lately is ‘The Return Of The Unholy In The Cloak’ by Consilium Lupum. Leaning more toward a traditional Dungeon Synth sound, this album takes me back to amicable Medieval times where music was joyous and the ambiance was constructed around harmonious times.

Album opener, “A Medieval Saga (The Beginning)” erupts after transitioning from a subtle ambient tone. Decadent, rhythmic patterns gallop blithely with a slight distortion while drawing the listener into a Middle Aged world with alluring melodies. Trance-like percussive beats boost the feeling of being secluded in hazy memories of darker, yet peaceful time. “Return Of The Wanderer” commences with the crashes of thunderous sound effects while distorted modulations create a pattern of essential tones. Their are excellent synth works in this tune that flows in a continuous, transparent stream from beginning to end. “The Crying From The Old Man’s Cave” features valiant horn effects as if a mysterious introduction of important figures were abound for an imminent presentation. Layers of horns and synths emit noble sounds of content heritage and vast prosperity for all. “The Magic Journey Across The Mountains” has more of a minimalist approach. With sparse use of soundscapes, this tune relies heavily on lush, alluring synths that produce a gratifying melody and the sense of mystical journeys. “The Sorcerer From The Past” commences with a short drone before introducing another round of horn effects. Wonderfully layered in a coat of distortion, this track crescendos into a rapid pattern of synth bliss before decreasing into a minimal lull. The sounds of rain and thunder begin the ominous “The Song From The Dead Forest” and tiered synths play various harmonies that fuse together in unison. At various times, the soothing rain returns and abruptly concludes but never takes away from the beauty of this gloomy arrangement. “The Seeker” begins with a psychedelic vibe and the looping keys almost produce a hypnotic-like state. Several synth patterns begin and are a bit loud in the mix but this discordant approach works well for this track. It’s as if blurred vision slowly becomes into focus and then becomes increasingly sharp, before returning to the normalcy of a focused state. “Trapped In Time” is a short track that has a slight synthwave sound, as sharp keys focus on elongated chops and a reverberated rhythm plays a peculiar pattern. “The Joy Train Through The Hidden Village” continues with joyous melodies and rhythmic drums beats that are reminiscent of a peaceful town where goods are sold and celebrations are held throughout. The final track on the album is, “A Graveled Time Of Our Lives”. Beginning with a round of celestial sound effects, droning keys and esoteric fills lead to a dismal incantation, bringing this otherwise uplifting album to a grim ending.

For a debut Dungeon Synth album, Consilium Lupum offers an impressive collection of Medieval tracks. From blaring horn effects to distorted synths, this album really creates an atmosphere of peaceful endeavors of feudal, Medieval times. This is an album that warrants multiple listens, especially if in the mood for knights, castles and foreshadowing relics of ancient lands. Please check out this excellent release by clicking on the link below. Most of all, enjoy the daring adventure that ensues.

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Links:

https://saluterecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-return-of-the-unholy-in-the-cloak

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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Links:

https://morkhest.bandcamp.com/album/conspiracy-of-angels