Origin : Switzerland
Genre : Folk / Melodic Death Metal
Release : 2017
Album Info / Review
Intro:
Eluveitie, the Swiss titans of folk-infused melodic death metal, return with “Evocation II – Pantheon,” a sprawling opus dedicated to the Celtic pantheon. Following the thematic threads of their previous acoustic exploration, “Evocation I,” this installment dives deeper into the spiritual and mythological heart of ancient Gaul, weaving a tapestry of pagan reverence with their signature blend of raw power and intricate folk instrumentation. This is not merely a collection of songs; it’s a ritualistic journey, a sonic invocation designed to transport the listener to mist-shrouded forests and windswept battlefields. The production is crisp, allowing each instrument, from the guttural growls to the delicate hurdy-gurdy melodies, to breathe and contribute to the overall atmosphere of primal energy and melancholic beauty.
Track Analysis:
“Daughter of the Forest” opens with a haunting, ethereal vocalization, quickly building into a mid-paced, driving rhythm propelled by Christian “Chrigel” Glanzmann’s distinctive growls and the relentless pulse of the drums. The hurdy-gurdy, a constant presence throughout the album, weaves a mournful counter-melody, evoking the ancient spirits of the land. “Epona” shifts gears with a more upbeat tempo, featuring prominent bagpipes that inject a martial, almost celebratory feel, while still maintaining a sense of gravitas. The interplay between the distorted guitars and the folk instruments is masterfully handled, creating a dynamic push and pull. “Catolicus” is a more introspective piece, starting with a spoken-word passage that transitions into a somber, acoustic passage before the full band erupts with a powerful, anthemic chorus. The melodic guitar lines here are particularly poignant. “Luth” showcases the band’s ability to craft intricate instrumental passages, with a prominent fiddle solo that dances over a foundation of heavy riffing. The vocal delivery on this track is particularly aggressive, adding a layer of ferocity to the folk melodies. “Rebirth” is a significant departure, a purely instrumental track that leans heavily into atmospheric textures. The use of tin whistles and flutes creates a dreamlike quality, punctuated by subtle percussive elements, building a sense of anticipation. “Artio” returns to their more familiar aggressive sound, with blast beats and sharp, angular riffs that contrast with the more fluid folk melodies. Glanzmann’s vocal performance is particularly commanding here, conveying a fierce devotion to the animalistic aspects of the pantheon. “Tanovella” features a more traditional folk structure, with acoustic guitars and layered vocals, creating a sense of communal chanting. The transition into the heavier sections is seamless, demonstrating the band’s compositional maturity. “Macha” is a powerful, driving track that feels like a battle hymn. The tempo is relentless, and the guitar work is sharp and aggressive, yet the folk melodies, particularly the bagpipes, add a layer of stoic resilience. “Deo Brigantia” is an epic closer, a multi-layered composition that ebbs and flows between moments of quiet contemplation and explosive aggression. The final minutes are a triumphant crescendo, a cathartic release that leaves the listener with a profound sense of awe.
Conclusion:
“Evocation II – Pantheon” is a triumphant return for Eluveitie, solidifying their position as leaders in the folk metal scene. They have not only embraced their roots but have also pushed the boundaries of their sound, delivering an album that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. The careful integration of ancient Celtic mythology with their characteristic blend of melodic death metal and folk instrumentation results in a cohesive and deeply moving listening experience. This is an album that demands repeat listens, each spin revealing new layers of sonic detail and thematic depth. It’s a testament to their dedication to their craft and their unwavering commitment to honoring the ancient spirits.
Rating: 9.5/10
Highlight Track: Macha
