RMR indeed grew into a predominantly metal webzine over time. That, and a few rock pieces here and there thrown in for good measure. The third style direction – folk – didn’t get all that much attention over many moons. And that’s a pity because there’s still a lot of potential to discover. Luckily, a trve folk piece came along in 2023, which also famously landed on our Top 10. And that whetted our appetite for more. Much more.
So, this early 2024, Ember Belladonna‘s The Grove crossed our hawse. And seriously so. Not with a pure folk album as Sangre de Muérdago did last year, mind you. But with an equally flute-heavy piece that – at the same time – boasts some sort of a funky mix of Celtic Folk and a derivative of Folk Rock. And that’s not something we heard a lot lately, I might add. Of course, flute-laden offerings are somewhat of a guilty pleasure at RMR HQ, so here we go.
And – it’s all about that favorable first impression you need to make. The moment Tenalach takes off, you feel transported into some mystical highland landscape full of kilt-clad, bare-assed warriors, damsels in distress, and earthy daemons and fairies. You see, the RMR crew always searches for that shred of extra emotion expressed in artists’ music. And this here record hit home right away with a subtle yet powerful progression in full folk mode. The excellent Heart of the Grove seamlessly follows suit in the same vein. But once the angelic soprano of The Darkeyed Musician chimes in on guest vocals, the magic soared to new heights. There is excellence in execution and this track is a shining example of a well-balanced, excellently paced folk track with some rocky notions.
The old geezers over at the review desk marveled at the melodies that effortlessly flow through those lush copses and meadows of The Grove. Always led on by this magic flute, sometimes complemented by a harp or two, acoustic guitars, and tasty archaic drums. Even quiet injections of Folk Rock synced pretty well with Justin Bender‘s1 subdued guitars and the drummer’s frugal offerings.
And yet. The much-hyped metal parts didn’t quite convince. Even if Emma Kramer-Rodgers (Ember Belladonna herself) strapped a guitar pedal to the glissando flute which – indeed – created the most astonishing effects. And whilst we admired the smooth flow of The Wild Hunt, Ruination returned a somewhat watery footprint. And frankly, James Delbridge‘s (Lycanthro) ministrations somehow fester way back in that sumpy Celtic mix in search of a surrogate of the Loch Ness monster or something. Spirit Woman, featuring Laura Inferno Vargas, fared a bit better. The Inferno Doll indeed managed to inject some of her vampiric venom into the tale. And yet, the percussion almost bored us to tears, and the anemic electric guitars impressed nobody over here. The distorted flute – however – truly blew us away.
In other words, metal can be paired with folk to stunning effect, no doubt. But for this to stick, real Pagan or Folk Metal outfits might suit better. Or – failing that – head down the road of early Myrkur with her somewhat unhinged but utterly compelling integration of a folksy soundscape and – Black Metal of all things. Anything else, and you can’t shake that feeling of some badly stitched golem looking back at you.
Ultimately though, The Grove contains one of the best flute offerings this side of Jethro Tull. Ember Belladonna had us reeling backward in our comfy seats complete with goosebumps a few times with her magical musical prowess. And you truly feel transported back to times when the Celtic tribes were strong, in full power, and their swords held high and proud. Even if Ember Belladonna hails from Regina in good ol’ Canada, believe it or not. This very short record is living proof that the flute has its place in both, modern music and the Pagan Folk realm.
So, if your metal-laced ears are weary of that continued brutal onslaught, take a moment and spin this album. It will offer you a soothing and magical moment of peace and quiet that sometimes sails pretty near to Loreena McKennit. And whilst not perfect, this still is one powerful mix of archaic Celtic sounds and modern rock with a metallic tinge. Something we should have more of.
Record Rating: 6/10 | Label: Self-Released | Web: Official Band Site
Release Date: 9 February 2024
- Don’t get me started. Please. Don’t.-↩