a r c a n a

...the last embrace - CMI.79

At the time when "Dark ages of reason" came out, Arcana was a very promising new act, that had teased the audience with several excellent songs on compilations. Then, the duo proved to be able to write the best songs ever in neo-classical, Dead Can Dance like holy medieval music. Their second album, "Cantar de Procella" confirmed it, and here we are with their third offering, "The last embrace".

The problem with Arcana is the lack of difference between their CDs. However great "The last embrace" may be, it doesn't bring anything really new to people who already have the other CDs. Basically, the same recipe is used on "The last embrace". Which result in the fact that if you liked the first two CDs, you'll like this one and, on the contrary, if you didn't like Arcana before, there's no point to listen to this one.

Distant drummings, beautiful strings arrangements, heavenly female vocals and grave male voices, epic tracks and beautiful hymns, this CD is full of great Arcana songs. It would be totally wrong to say that this is not great music. If it was the first CD I heard from this band, I would be extremely enthusiastic. Everybody should own at least one of Arcana's album, either this one or its predecessors (even though it seems to me that the recording on "The last embrace" is slightly below "Cantar de Procella"'s.

This album features 2 songs taken from the "Isabel" single and the track that appeared on "The absolute supper" compilation. This leaves 7 new songs for the fans. Of course, they should buy it, even though they know this is a pure sequel of "Cantar de procella". In a way, that's Arcana's magic: their music is so beautiful that it has become addictive. Even though you know what you'll get on this new CD, you need to own it, because these tracks are so moving and enchanting.

All in all, nothing new under Arcana's sun, but they are just two good at writing songs full of beauty, majesty and emotions.

Nicolas, June 18, 2000