ARKANA

It is a pitty this album is unknown for so many prog listeners. Otherwise, I am sure there would be lots of reviews granting the rating it deserves, it means 5 stars. Definitively, this album is a masterpiece of metal related prog rock. Asgard in this album has reached an excellent combination: on one hand, a very well developed gothic atmosphere; and on the other hand, a powerfull instrumental virtuosity. Since the beginning of the first song, we are aware of the eerie world we are landing on. For the atmosphere this album generates seems to become a dark fairy tale. Within its paths we come across with echoes, gossips and wails. Soft chords becomes heavy storms. And the keybord gives the textures that transport us to weird sensations. I don't know why nobody commented a word about Ferrero's drums. I think he reaches the excellence in many moments, especially in Wulfstan.

I think this album is essential. It is one of those albums with passages that make you shiver because you can't stand with such a beauty.