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Having heard Temnozor's prior releases in consecutive order from "Sorcery of Fragments" to "Horizons" and now to "Folkstorm of Azure Nights" it is completely clear that the band is certainly one of the greatest BM bands around. Every one of Temnozor's releases has that mystical quality that cannot be described. It puts the listener in a state where nature in all its purity can be experienced through the music's lush atmosphere. "Folkstorm of Azure Nights" seems like a combination of the aggression and environment of "Sorcery of Fragments" and the rich wintery soundscapes of "Horizons." The end result is Temnozor's most mature release that commands the listener's attention and envelopes him in the mystical nature that drives the band's music.
This release is not folk music woven in with black metal but rather vice versa. The traditional folk instruments are abundant throughout the entire release and create an incredibly consistent flow in each composition. There are layers and layers of music that build up the tremendous atmosphere throughout the album. "Folkstorm of Azure Nights" captures the traditions of the past and the call to retain ancestral wonders. The title track opens the album with a tranquil string introduction. The drums then kick in and then some whispering vocals by a woman and the singer. Suddenly the atmosphere bursts as the singer begins along with the coldness of the guitars. Immediately, it can be sensed that this will be one amazing album and indeed never is there a low point in any of the songs. Every track flows seamlessly into the next yet subtle differences can be sensed between compositions. There is a strong aggression in "Watch the Falcons Fly" that reminds me of something found off "Sorcery of Fragments." On the other hand there are moving folk compositions on songs such as "Where The Lazure Skies Tear The Hearts Apart." The singing is fantastic and brilliantly developed as a combination between the past two releases. Guitars mainly provide a cold atmosphere and accomplish exactly what they are supposed to in this kind of music. Drums are unique and keep a great rhythm throughout the album. Everything just adds up brilliantly on this release.
Fans of Temnozor will certainly be captured by this album. The music is unique and the atmosphere it creates is beyond words. This is BM at its best and Temnozor continue to be leaders in their music that set the standard for others to look upon. "Folkstorm of Lazure Nights" is overall a release of tremendous quality that should be listened to by all fans of BM who wish to capture the mystical qualities of nature and the past.
Rating:  [5 of 5 Stars!] |
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