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One of the most pleasant experiences a reviewer is exposed to is when he, or she, discovers an amazing new band which sounds unlike anything ever heard before. I was a very happy man, or boy depending on the eyes of the beholder, when I heard the ethereal music of The Moon And The Nightspirit. This is a project from Hungary that was created in 2003 by a couple named Agnes and Mihaly. In 2004 they recorded an EP and signed a record contract with the rising Portuguese label Equilibrium Music for the release of this full-length album. "Of Dreams Forgotten And Fables Untold" is one of the most enchanting debuts I have had the pleasure of enduring so far during my entire "career" as a reviewer. It is a musical journey into the realms of pagan fables and ancient Hungarian folk music, told by two young but extremely talented musicians. The couple provide beautiful female vocals, emotional violins, mystical woodwinds and mood setting piano, all of it mostly accompanied by Mihali's acoustic guitar playing. Gabor Vegh guests on percussion as well, adding the final touch to a mix that turns out to be only an inch away from perfect.
At times The Moon And The Nightspirit reminds me of Hagalaz' Runedance but with a warmer atmosphere and less monotonous in their approach on song writing. Their connection to old folk music also seems stronger. The vocals are much less harsh as well, leaning more towards Liv Kristine's beautiful earlier work and the singing style of Celtic folk singer Loreena McKennitt. While references to other bands are always possible to point out I can honestly say that I have never heard anything quite like this. Agnes and Mihaly portrays the spirit of Hungary, its people, its nature and its past, in a way that all people of their country should be proud of. A magnificent end to a very good year and an album which has quickly become one of my absolute favorites. If you are going to buy just one non-metal album this year make sure that this is it!
| Tracklist |
| 1. Égi Táltos |
| 2. Lullaby (The Final Gyre Of Suns) |
| 3. Beloved Enchantress |
| 4. The Secret Path |
| 5. In Gardens Of Worlds Undreamt |
| 6. Holdanyánk |
| 7. Echo Of Atlantis |
| 8. Pagan |
| 9. Of Dreams Forgotten And Fables Untold |
: 37.55
| Buy other The Moon And The Nightspirit albums |
