Requiem

Gae Bolg

Auerbach Tontrager

Prophecy Productions 2006

Web: http://www.prophecyproductions.de

Gae Bolg is one of the more unique bands in the neo classic and mediaeval genre. Their last album “Aucassin et Nicolette” was a concept album based on Chantefable, a classic book of French fiction dating from 1225. It was well received and mixed dark ambient and atmospheric genres with Medieval and neo classic sounds. This new album Requiem is, however, quite unique. It has a far darker and sombre tone. It is, indeed, a requiem, a mass for the dead, dedicated to the departed friends and relatives of Eric Roger (who is Gae Bolg), who was incidentally the trumpeter for Sol Invictus.

This is a powerful and moving piece of music. I cannot think of any more fitting tribute than to create such a masterful experience in memory of those who have gone before. At the same time don’t be put off thinking this is a morbid or worse, sentimental. This is a celebration of life and death in grand style. There are Gregorian chants and powerful orchestration and at times the music is overpowering and martial, even bombastic, yet at other moments it is tender and evocative. Requiem is sacred music in a real and potent sense and will certainly effect every listener in a different way.

I found Requiem an extremely emotional experience and memorable experience. Whether you are remembering friends, lovers or family who have died or celebrating your ancestors, this is surely the way to do it. For me this is the most impressive CD of 2006 thus far !