So far this journey has been propelled by sequential surprises, as scene setting triumphs in constructing naturalist and fantasy ambiences. In The Wild North is the first instance where much of the music drifts from its scenic powers into drab spells of soft instrumentation lacking a thematic potency its album title suggests. Its opening two tracks weave strong melodies into its web of chilled, shimmering instruments. Between lulls upon snow blanketed fields do surges of valiant adventure arise. Dancing melodies move with gusto among the castly brooding synths below.
An excitement short lived, the following songs meander into a string of uneventful quiets, resting on its icy tone. The pace is sullen and lingering, not quite luminous to paint the vividness felt among these soft temperaments before. Individually the aesthetic chemistries are pleasing to the ear. Collectively they amount not much as direction feels lost among these frosty enchantments. Around the mid point, one song, Discovery Of The Ice Chasms, does turn the ear. A shivery mortal danger lurks in the shape of its unforgiving terrain, suggested only briefly in its one minute duration.
Another short piece, Emerging From The Caverns gains a similar distinction with the sudden shimmer of animated melodies. The song names suggest directions I didn't quite follow. However these pivoting moments made intentions obvious. Perhaps I've been spoiled by other works, or maybe this one could grow on me with time. Either way, its pleasant stay didn't hit me quite the same as the other incarnations.
Rating: 5/10