Various Artists – Whom the Moon a Nightsong Sings (2010)

Prophecy Productions has always been a label associated with top acts in the Neo-Folk / Neo-Classical genres, and with “Whom the Moon a Nightsong Sings”, the label puts together a very comprehensive package of top bands of the genre in the shape of a two CD/LP compilation of exclusive and rare tracks. While some people might call it a money-grabbing attempt from the label, we have to recognize that every single track in this release is of the outmost quality and creates a very cohesive atmosphere around it.

Featuring exclusive songs from bands like Empyrium, Nest, Nebelung, Tenhi, October Falls, Les Discrets, and Dornenreich among others will surely make fans of the bands and the genres immediately acquire this release as a essential addition to their collection. Other might be enticed by ‘rare’ tracks such as “Synen” from Ulver, and “Apres l'Ombre” by Les Discrets. But the most important thing here is the chance of getting a wide variety of bands together in a double release that will serve as a perfect starting point for people looking into the genres.

Going into the actual tracks, probably the most appealing one for us was “The Days Before the Fall”, a brand new track by the recently resurrected (and personal favorite band) Empyrium. This track shows that Empyrium is ready for a comeback and it means business, featuring their traditional sound that haunts everybody that’s heard of them before. Other tracks like “Kausienranta” from Tenhi, are downright chilling and create a perfect dark atmosphere that showcases what this type of music is all about.

Other highlights include Orplid’s demo version of Stille, featuring rich instrumentation, melancholic mood and great vocal. We also have Dornenreich and their haunting “Dem Wind geboren” that takes a bit of a folk-ish turn when compared to other songs, but the haunting string sections make it a must for any fan of the band. October Falls also offers a eerie tune with “Viima”. We think that is sufficient to say that no track in this release feels like a filler, and each one contributes to the overall dark mood of this great release.

Pretentious some might say, but we think that this type of music has to be both beautiful and perfectly crafted to create the desired effect. Involving themes around nature and such make this music even more satisfactory to listen to, give the organic feel to it. We loved this release and if you like any of the genres that it covers, you will do to. If you are looking to get into this type of music, we think this is the ideal place to start and pick the bands you like the most.

Release: December 7th, 2010

Country: Various