WE ILA

THORK is a side project of the Maurin brothers from the band NIL. "Weila" is a little difficult to describe, almost gothic at times and dark most of the time. It's difficult to know what genre this should be in but most people wouldn't think of "Folk" when they hear it. Complex arrangments, as unusual sounds pop up including programming and unconventional instruments. A lot of intricate things going on that require not only your full attention but repeated listens in order to appreciate it.

The first song "L'origine" is like the temptress to lure you in to "Weila". It is symphonic, phenomenal and fascinating music. The French vocalist is extraordinory. He reminds me of some of the powerful Italian vocalists from the seventies. For me this song is worth the price of admission all by itself. It opens powerfully but sounds even better when it calms down. Vocals before a minute. It builds again to a powerful sound. Nice.The contrasts continue. The vocals are gothic when it settles again 5 minutes in. Some violin 9 1/2 minutes in. "D'ilectable Enniu" opens with some instrumental work before a dark and fairly heavy soundscape takes over. It changes before 2 minutes as percussion then violin comes in. It's darker again before 3 1/2 minutes as vocals join in. Some spoken vocals 6 minutes in followed by some eerie violin after 7 minutes. Just an incredible song ! "Errance" is a short track with guitar and vocals. The epic "Ea" at over 21 minutes long and it doesn't sound gothic it is gothic, from the vocals that speak, to the brooding undercurrent, to the sampling. Love the scorching guitar. There's even a Zeuhl vibe after 6 1/2 minutes with deep vocals. Great section. The guitar makes some noise 12 1/2 minutes in and it sounds incredible. Vocals are back before 18 minutes then the song starts to wind down.

"Errances" is another short piece and this time we get vocal melodies and lots of atmosphere. The vocals on "Danse De La Terrs" are done by NIL singer Roselyne, and done beautifully. I like the section after 2 minutes where the guitar plays and the drums pound away. It turns dark 4 1/2 minutes in then Roselyne adds her vocal melodies after 5 minutes. Great sound.She starts to sing and it sounds like the organ is pulsating slowly then drums come in at 8 minutes followed by guitar and a full sound. Nice. The guitar is fantastic ! He's ripping it up before 10 minutes. The song ends abruptly. The final tune is a highlight for me as well, from the scorching guitars, to the flute, spacey synths, violin and great vocals.This song is pure brilliance ! Especially the last few minutes.

An outlandish way to end this amazing record.