EPILOG

Änglagård is one of those bands that existed for an extremely short amount of time, but made such an affect on those exposed to them. Each band member is a master of their respective instrument, and has a very unique style and feel. Unfortunately, this band broke up after their next release, and didn't continue their streak of studio masterpieces.

Änglagård can say more without words than most bands ever will. This music is truly genuine, and extremely complex and progressive. This Swedish six piece (say that ten times fast) is so tight that it's baffling. This albums swerves from the absolutely epic, aggressive, exhilarating fast-paced rockers, to passive, gorgeous, dark segments. The latter are constructed by sharp flute, clear piano/keyboards, and some soft acoustic guitar.

The creativity and originality that went into the writing of this album is in abundance. Their sound has been further developed since Hybris, so that it isn't more of the same. But they haven't changed enough to be a new band, so those of you who loved Hybris, do not fear! This album is really on par with their last. I question why Hybris has so much recognition, while Epilog remains quietly in the dark. The last and first songs envelop the album. Their both incredibly emotional, and so darkly moving. The transition song, Rösten, is actually quite effective, and if it is removed, the mood of Skogsranden is quite different. Skogsranden is a new version of the bonus track from Hybris, Gånglåt från Knapptibble. It's much longer, as there is a whole new piano-led introduction.

Sista Somrar, the climax of this album, is absolutely stunning. It begins with a touching and yet foreshadowing soft introduction, but then (somewhat abruptly) explodes into a ferocious electric rocker. Later, it falls back to near-silence, and this time explodes (very abrutply) into an extremely odd and original rhythmic...thing...I don't really know how to describe it exactly, It sounds as if every second bar, the band adds half a beat to the count, or something strange like that. By reading about it, it sounds awkward, but works magnificently, and holds so much burning energy.

This is a fantastic series of songs that are tied with an overall atmosphere. It's incredibly complex and exciting, and moving and touching, and very, very memorable. For a musical adventure that you'll likely not soon forget, I bid you buy this album.