Elffor "Son Of The Shades" CD (Bonustracks)

Tracks 9 & 10 were originally composed in 2002 and were recorded in 2007 for this reissue.
Re-recorded by Eöl & re-mastered by Eöl & Lord Trollish at Liant Studios December 2007.

I tend to be wary of one-man projects/bands, due to simple skepticism of a single person being able to craft anything worthwhile, or equally competent in each of its aspects. I don't quite remember what led me to find Elffor, but I'm glad I did. Elffor, and the reissue of this album in 2017, helped me discover the sub-genre of dungeon synth, and I could not be any more grateful. Those this album is a far cry from metal, whilst still including small aspects of it, it's still a beautiful and imaginative piece of work.
At its core, this album is pure atmosphere. The tracks culminate in a cold, mystical and invigorating world, that grips you from the first to last track. This album does what I think an album should do if it wants to be memorable and amazing: create a world in its sound. When I listen to any track, I can imagine a Tolkien winter journey, calling throughout a mountainous landscape.
The production is a bizarre case of being slightly dated and unconventionally timeless, and this abnormality does nothing but add to this album's charm and wonder. The synths used on this album are beautifully orchestral and create a grand scale of freezing majesty. The vocals are also incredibly moving and entertaining to listen to. From the chants of the intro track creating a feeling of magical scrutiny, to the cleaner vocals offering an operatic and symphonic approach, adding a pained feel of isolated atmosphere, and finally to the more black vocals, invoking the more metal and cold side of the album. What little guitar parts there are don't miss a beat and add a barrage of freezing impact to the sound.
I've been listening to this album for about a year now, and still find great enjoyment in it, dues to the wondrous and creative atmosphere it paints in my mind. An arduous, yet mystical and adventurous snow/landscape full of dread and macabre wonder, created with haunting and beautiful vocals, cold synthesizers, and simple yet powerful riffs. No track is without its moments, and all are a hit in my book.

Sample: