AION

Aion by Dead Can Dance is the band's first release following the end of the romantic relationship between Lisa Gerrard and Brendan Perry, and they show exceptional professionalism in the extent to which it does not seem to impact too heavily on their musical interactions here. Perhaps songs such as Fortune Presents Gifts Not According to the Book are meant to allude, however obliquely, to the end of the affair; either way, the album is even more introverted and contemplative than the two preceding pieces.

Whilst it isn't quite as eye-opening as its two predecessors, it stands as proof that despite the romantic breakup, there was still some unfinished business for Dead Can Dance to explore - and both its primary creative forces were up to the task of tackling it.