EP REVIEW: Crowned In Skulls – Forever Autumn
FOREVER AUTUMN‘s experimentation with pagan influences has garnered them a lot of curiosity over their 20+ year career. Releasing their first demo in 2001, four full-length albums have since emerged, starting with the release of Waiting For Öktober in 2008. Their music is haunting yet beautiful, and there is no denying that they are one of a kind.
Crowned In Skulls is no different. Starting off with a gentle guitar lull, opener The Forest And The Nyght soon descends into banshee like screams which contrast with the gentle singing. Whilst mostly being an instrumental song, there is something fascinating about the screams. Of course, they will not be to everyone’s tastes; however, if you stick with them long enough, they have a certain appeal. There is no denying that this is a very unique opening song, but that also helps the EP, as it moves into a quick interlude comprising of a fast-paced guitar riff.
Each song uses instruments that on paper should not work together. For example, a cello and shaker would sound boring together. However, on Incense And Deer Skulls, they are captivating. What is also unique about Crowned In Skulls is that you don’t quite know what you are going to get on each song. On the aforementioned Incense And Deer Skulls, it is an almost four minute interlude. It is so well-crafted that you can’t help but listen to it as it increases in speed and then slowly descends as the song ends.
Dried Herbs In Water‘s ten-minute runtime might put a lot of people off. It definitely takes a lot of patience to sit through a long song. But it works here as it is unpredictable. Focusing mostly on chants and gentle percussion, the minutes fly by. Admittedly, it is a marmite song, as some people might find the slow pace of the song a little tedious. On the other hand, the stripped back nature allows you to hear every individual instrument. It is worth it just for that. Whilst it does pick up the pace during the last three minutes, it feels like a natural progression.
The final song, titled Under Shadows Of Annwn, starts off with an acoustic guitar and cello. These help emphasise the soft chants that are some of the best on the EP. It is a slow song; however, it is a nice closing track for a unique experience. FOREVER AUTUTMN work best when there is not a lot going on in their songs, that way you can truly appreciate them.
In conclusion, whilst Crowned In Skulls will not be for everyone, this EP is a great shout for those who want to have a unique listening experience. It is a roller-coaster of emotion, as you don’t know what is coming next. Full of fantastic instruments, haunting vocals and the most ambitious songs, FOREVER AUTUMN will not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you are willing to listen with an open mind, however, there is beauty in the simplicity of it all. And at the end of the day, simplicity is what life comes down to.
Rating: 8/10
Crowned In Skulls is set for release on February 3rd via self-release.
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