Lucifaere An Alchemy of Beliefs

The drum beats out as if for some ritual. Strange atmospheres are created and by the two minute mark a rhythmic sequence picks up the pace in classic Kirkwood style. ‘Dark Moon Rising’ is a very accessible track and would be ideal for those sampling Lucifaere for the first time. Another exciting sequence is layered over the top, mutating all the time. At about the half way mark great stabs of energy are added and the sequences become even more intense. This is gob smacking stuff! A deeper sequence rumbles forward giving the track a more menacing tilt. By eleven minutes we get virtual guitar stabs and an almost angelic lead line playing over the top. OK, I know I keep saying this but this must really be one of the best Lucifaere tracks ever.

‘In the arms of Me-Tog-Ma’ begins peacefully with the sound of chimes and garden noise, very light and dreamy for Lucifaere. An acoustic sounding rhythm starts up, it is very infectious and the production on it is wonderful. Things then really do start to bop along nicely. Melodically there are Eastern references but not overdone and again this is much more accessible than is usual. It couldn’t be more removed from his recent Section 37 project. ‘Oshun’ is dedicated to SMD customer and all round good stick Bob Saker. A high register sequence forms to backbone to what is to become quite an ethnically tinged track complete with appropriate vocal samples.

‘In the Temple of Gaia’ has a very atmospheric beginning which leads to a deep bass pulse over which a sequence is layered (again so obviously Kirkwood). After a short while the sequence is punctuated by various sound effects. A second sequence falls into line beside the first. We return to just the first sequence and a melody plays over the top. Things then start to become manic with virtual guitar cutting lead lines and a general beefing up of the backing. Things only quieten down for the last couple of minutes. Plucked strings form the opening of ‘The Passing of The Shee’. It is a short but truly beautiful track full of delicate melody. This is where the credited tracks finish but there is an untitled sixth piece tagged on to the end. From rhythmic beginnings we get weird synth drones and the occasional cry of a bird. A second rhythm is added and a very deep sequence comes and goes. Yet another ‘playful’ rhythm is included. We get ‘Red Indian’ type chants similar to those sparingly used on previous releases. Apart from a quiet section in the middle The track progresses in a lightly rhythmic and melodic way until its finish. This is a very good album with the first track being particularly outstanding. (DL)

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