ASCENSION - NEW DARK AGE, VOLUME 2

In the liner notes the band says "This limited edition cd of 750 copies is a companion release to "New Dark Age", as it further explores the themes and concepts present during the recording sessions...". In fact they even go as far to call it "New Dark Age Volume 2" above the song titles.

"Arose From The Ashes" opens with strummed acoustic guitar that reminds me of THE BEATLES "Norwegian Wood" everytime I hear it. This goes on for 3 minutes when it changes to an experimental final 2 1/2 minute of sounds that come and go. "Licking The Skull" opens with the sound of a drill. And like Finnforest I can't help but think of the dentist. The synths in the background really don't help as I just want to get through this one as fast as possible. "The Hanging Tree" is just a pleasure to listen to. Very relaxing and spacey much in the PINK FLOYD or early PORCUPINE TREE style. Like listening to a dream. Beautiful. Guitar comes in before 3 minutes and it continues until after 6 minutes. Just an amazing section.

"Swimming In The Big Sky" is mostly strummed guitar and drums with other sound effects. "Special Cases" opens with both electric and acoustic guitars. Heavy drums take over then deep bass comes and goes. Voices can be heard before 3 minutes as the melody stops. It's back 3 1/2 minutes in. "Stage Three" is heavy to begin with as drums pound and the guitar grinds. I really like this tune a lot. Some excellent bass late. "Disintegration" is the 16 minute closer. For the most part it's pretty ambient and repetitive with some spacey sections as well.

I'm a big fan of this band but there's not near enough on here to rate it 4 stars. Having said that, the songs "The Hanging Tree" and "Stage Three" make this one well worth owning.