The Epic Musical Journey of Old Sorcery's 'The Outsider'
Prepare to embark on a musical adventure! Old Sorcery, the brainchild of Finnish multi-instrumentalist Vechi Vrăjitor, has crafted a masterpiece that will transport you to a realm of swords, sorcery, and sonic splendor. But here's where it gets intriguing: this album isn't just another dungeon synth journey; it's a bold fusion of genres that will leave you captivated.
'The Outsider' continues the 'Masks of the Magi' trilogy, building upon the success of its predecessor, 'The Escapist'. Vrăjitor fearlessly ventures into uncharted territory, drawing inspiration from early Emperor while carving out a unique, atmospheric sound. Imagine 12-grit tremolo walls, relentless blast beats, and raspy vocals echoing like storm winds, all providing a foundation for icy synths, enchanting woodwinds, and a touch of folk. It's a musical feast!
But wait, there's more! This 71-minute epic isn't just about the music; it's a narrative journey. Vrăjitor masterfully weaves a tale through music, inviting listeners to uncover the hidden story within. And the best part? It's an instrumental album, allowing your imagination to run wild. You'll find yourself in snowy landscapes, cozy campfires, and crystalline caverns, all without a single word being sung.
Old Sorcery is no newcomer to the scene, having established itself with the 'Castle' trilogy. 'The Outsider' showcases the project's evolution, boldly venturing beyond its core sound while staying true to its roots. It's a grand tapestry of diverse songs, best experienced as a whole rather than dissected track by track. So, on a cold, snowy day, grab your favorite drink and let 'The Outsider' sweep you away.
Rating: 3.5/5.0
A Dungeon Synth and Black Metal Fusion?
Mystikus Hugebeard, a fellow enthusiast, shares a similar admiration for Old Sorcery's ability to capture the essence of old-school dungeon synth. However, 'The Outsider' isn't just a dungeon synth album; it's a surprising blend of raw, wintry black metal and the familiar synth soundscape. Imagine the opening track, 'Magick Triumph', with its rumbling horns and scattered synths, suddenly enveloped in a grimy guitar fog.
This fusion is executed flawlessly, with the synths and guitars working in harmony. The dungeon synth elements add warmth to the cold black metal, creating standout moments like synths fading in and out of stormy guitar riffs. The album maintains a strong sense of melody throughout, making it an engaging listen from start to finish.
At over 70 minutes, 'The Outsider' is an ambitious endeavor, but Old Sorcery manages the length skillfully. From dramatic epics to softer synth tracks and electronic/metal harmonies, the album offers a diverse and captivating experience. While some may wish for more of the staccato synth tones in the ambient tracks, the overall composition is well-balanced and satisfying.
In summary, 'The Outsider' is a unique and captivating album that defies easy categorization. It's a must-listen for fans of both dungeon synth and black metal, proving that sometimes, the most extraordinary journeys are those that blend genres and challenge expectations.
Rating: Very Good!
What are your thoughts on genre-bending albums like 'The Outsider'? Do you appreciate the fusion of dungeon synth and black metal, or do you prefer your genres to remain distinct? Share your opinions below, and let's spark a friendly debate!
