Arcana
Inner Pale Sun
6
Arcana is quite different from any traditional groups. Arcana is based around medieval compilations. Meaning that, the instruments are quite traditional and the vocals consist mainly of chanting and ambiance, versus typical lyrical content. The album "Inner Pale Sun" is comprised of 8 songs and features instruments such as violin, harpsichord, timpani, piano, ect...or is at least representative of such instruments. With the high quality electronic tools available today, it's often difficult to decipher the real instruments from the virtual ones. Therefore, I must assume that most of the instruments on this album are of the virtual/digital variety. If the instruments are in fact traditional, then you could bump my rating up a notch. As it is, I'm not overly impressed with "synthesized" music. Basically, this album is of the same format you might typically find on a movie soundtrack. When I listen to this album I visualize medieval knights in epic battles. Sorcerers casting spells of damnation. Lust for power and love gone astray. Events of epic proportion with an outcome that can be changed with the slightest of nuances. This album is very delicate yet bold simultaneously. There are no instruments on this this album that are typically the basis for any metal album, so really the only thing metal about this album is the atmosphere conveyed. Very dark, melodic and eerie. Other times, the music is gentle and reassuring. An extremely dramatic album for sure. The actual sound of the album is flawless. An ideal production! The downfall of the album is the fact that their is no metal on it. I was continually waiting for some drums to crush and guitars to slay. Not going to happen. Therefore, as a metal-head, this album is only half of what it should be. The dramatic interludes are there, but the heaviness that is metal was passed over. I fully appreciate what I'm hearing on this album, but it left me scratching my head as to what was not included. Overall, Arcana is a melodic atmospheric experience. It's an excellent release for what it is, but to me, it's still a soundtrack.
