Jim Kirkwood Yggdrasil Vol 1 Play: Lo-Fi   Mid-Fi   Hi-Fi   Download: Lo-Fi   Mid-Fi   Hi-Fi (Excerpt from track 'A Pageant of Lies')

'Yggdrasil' was initially a series of nine cassettes. They were released some time after his CD 'Tower of Darkness' but before Jim disappeared from the scene only to re-appear a few years later as Lucifaere. What we have here is the first album plus two tracks from later in the series.

'Pilgrim on a Crooked Path Pt 1' starts with tranquil angelic choral effects rippling from the speakers. We then get bright euphoric pads hinting at something awesome about to happen but things then descend into a whirlpool of cataclysmic sounds, like being sucked into hell. This is then contrasted by an optimistic sounding sequence which battles with the darkness for a while before eventually coming on top only to then subside again leaving an uneasy peacefulness. Another no nonsense sequence starts up joined by cosmic effects and a very effective melodic motif. A melodic sequence joins the fray but then all is change. Yet another sequence takes over and the vast pads from the beginning return, a drum beats out and then we gently float to the end.

Strummed strings over synth textures start Part 2. A lonesome flute gives a touch of sadness and a twangy bass sequence gets the track moving which are then supplemented by a beautiful plucked lead line. At five and a half minutes all hell breaks loose, the drums thundering forwards but then things descend into a swirling mist as we enter another atmospheric section. Melancholy lead lines create a feeling of foreboding which is emphasised by the surrounding pads. Another fast sequence then comes in, a rhythm builds and the tension mounts. The rhythm breaks, laser sharp lead lines flashing over the top and we rush forwards to wreak bloody vengeance! 'Asylum for a Beautiful God' begins with all manor of noises out of which a flute melody plays heralding a sequence. It is initially rather low in the mix but gradually becomes increasingly prominent. For the most part this is a rather laid back track being descriptive rather than the upbeat Armageddon of the previous numbers. 'A Pageant of Lies' commences with a fantastic flutey synth melody which lifts you up with it, soothes the heart and generally makes you feel great. A rhythm gives a rather medieval feeling to proceedings, different layers are added to the lead line heightening the effect still further. Then there is a sudden change, great pads swell and pulsations sounding like the previous melody are added - and then pow! A driving rhythm puts its foot down on the accelerator and we go charging over the hills in an ecstatic battle frenzy! This is an incredible track.