It is not often that one comes across gothic neo-classical music that is both ritualistic and genuinely dark, making this release something of a gem. Dargaard is yet another Austrian project; of Tharen and Elisabet Toriser.

The production is nearly perfect. It is not too clean: the sound is slightly rugged. The vocals are haunting and breathtaking; the female voice is truly ethereal. The music is rather played down, not trying to impress with grandeur. It is composed and at the same time not. There are samples from nature, purely electronic sounds, and real instrument sounds (though all are done with synths). Strings are abundant throughout, but a lot of melodies have been played with the sounds of piano and harp. The lyrics are good but generic enough to be easily made (i wouldn't be surprised if Tharen only had a very superficial interest in the occult). Nevertheless, that doesn't bother me as they are well written (Tharen is not an idiot at least) and are inspiring.

Stunningly beautiful, romantic, mystical, and occult. Ancient!

"mortal life is nothing compared to the void"

© 2002 rotblood