Freedom to Music
White Willow – Sacrament (2000) (@256)
31 Oct 2010
Thanks to Bragi Taliesin for the contribution.
(Review from progreviews.com, progarchives.com)
There really are quite few progressive rock bands that explore dark, melancholy territory the way White Willow does. The band has a reputation for being very mellow, too mellow for some listeners. On their third album, Sacrament, however, they produce a very balanced album that should satisfy anyone that thought earlier albums were just too quiet.
Making liberal use of acoustic guitar, flutes and lush keyboards, the band weaves soundscapes that are usually laid-back and relaxing, anchored by deep bass and overlaid with Sylvia Erichsen’s high, almost girlish vocals. However, they also periodically lash out with intensity, led by screaming guitars and a truly huge keyboard/organ sound.
The production is crystal-clear while still retaining warmth and feeling. Everything sounds perfect – the vocals, flutes, and records are all very clear, the acoustic guitar shimmers, and the mostly subtle percussion work comes through quite well.
The highlights include “The Last Rose of Summer” and particularly the melodic peak of “Paper Moon”. “Gnostalgia” is the most cohesive and compelling of the extended pieces.”Ring around the Rosie” chorus is oddly befitting of White Willow.
The dark mood, the sobriety and the beauty of the closing number is another fine moment from this album. The Reach is a perfect summary of this album. It has it all: tranquil coldness, immaculate beauty, emotional parts.
Line-up:
- Jacob Holm-Lupo / electric, acoustic & classical guitars, vocals, keyboards, bass
- Brynjar Dambo / keyboards, glockenspiel
- Aage Moltke Schou / drums, percussion, glockenspiel
- Sylvia Erichsen / vocals
- Johannes Saeboe / bass
- Ketil Vestrum Einarsen / flutes, recorders, melodica, keyboards
with
- Simen Haugberg / oboe
- Oystein Vesaas / vocals
Track List:
01. Anamnesis – 9:11
02. Paper Moon – 6:44
03. The Crucible – 7:32
04. The Last Rose Of Summer – 3:23
05. Gnostalgia – 10:18
06. The Reach – 10:59
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about 6 years ago
OGG!
blodwynpig_aheadringsout_1969.zip
Filesonic -> http://tinyurl.com/3war9u3
Hotfile -> http://tinyurl.com/3b3z663
Rapidshare -> http://tinyurl.com/yef8yjq
about 2 years ago
They’re from neighbouring Norway – and I’ve never heard of ‘em…should be interesting!
Cheers!
about 2 years ago
A very, very good album from a great band!