a r c a n a

Cantar de Procella - CMI.55

Cantar De Procella is a triumph in dark atmospheric music. Macabre, tragic, and forlorn. Cantar De Procella has a distinct medieval quality about it, and there is a greater focus this time around on Peter's vocals, which now bear more weight, and dominance. Ida's beautiful vocals remain as sorrowful as ever, and as witnessed in The Song of Solitude Arcana has allowed themselves to explore their ideas more fully, and not cutting thing off so quickly. The aforementioned piece possesses an almost trance like persona due to this "freedom" of will in the studio. Cantar de Procella bears a great consistency, like its predecessor, and I suggest this is another aspect of the duo's songwriting skills and vision. Arcana are creating music for the dreamers, for those who long to dwell in solitude, and for the dark and mysterious... And they do it well!

Arcana's second successful cd, the follower to their critically acclaimed debut "Dark Age of Reason", is yet again a soundjourney that will possibly open doors to your inner self, door to a world of beauty and darkness untouched by human hands until this was played. Arcana is again successfully delivering music that make a strong impact, music that is spellbinding us and offering so much soundpictures one rather listen to this than look through a book of pictures. It is truly a fantastic cd, taking away all bothering energy, providing the soul with a new future. Basically words are of no use... do find the key and listen to this untill you see the pictures it secretly hides.

Whoa- In comparison to the last CD from Arcana "Dark Age of Reason" that I reviewed- Cantar De Procella is a major leap... And I did like the first one. They have definately gotten better at the ambience of the renaissance period. This album I would say is more rich in period. It sounds somewhat like Dead Can Dance "Aeon" - but a very dark side. With beautifull, strong vocals coupled with chanting- atmospheric bells - and menacing deep and hollow drums. Another excellent disc from Cold Meat Industry - All throughout the CD I only had one complaint- The female's vocals seemed to be washed out at points, by the music - This may have been intentional- if so then the effect was eerie and good- but i can't help but wonder what her voice would sound like if it were made a ittle more clear in the mix.

Review by Evoltwin