Ringarë is an atmospheric black metal project, originally founded by the guitarist and keyboardist Esoterica (Chaos Moon, Gardsghastr) and Anomalous in 2004 when it was still known under the name “Ringar”. Although mastermind Esoterica had written loads of material back then, some of his musical works have been used for Chaos Moon. In 2018 Ringarë was joined by vocalist Likpredikaren and debuted the first studio album ‘Under Pale Moon‘ in 2019 which was deemed a musty relic from the past. Two years later the prolific composer presented another timeless relic that was conceived in 2004: the sophomore album ‘Thrall of Winter’s Majesty‘ was uniquely composed with the nostalgic and dreamlike melodies of the past. Ringarë’s musical art is reminiscent of the atmospheric and symphonic black metal era. The album offers four prolonged tracks that can be described as dark and moody.   

The beautiful dreamscapes of the melodies cascade through cold, desolate landscapes, although the material is dated to 2004 the duo provides many spectacular and epic melodies. This time the production enhances the overall sound making it somehow accessible whereas the music is comparable to second wave black metal bands such as Summoning and Elffor. On the opener ‘Witness to Winter’s Lament‘ the dark brooding synth contrasts with the grim lamenting vocals. With the subdued tremolos casting a mesmerizing effect, the album has a better sound quality compared to the debut album. However, the guitars are laden with introspective melodies that nourish the dismal atmosphere, although Ringarë’s musical style is imbibed with a somber ambiance.

The synth is the core of the songwriting and provides a unique ambiance as it captures this medieval style of black metal. Other instruments like the guitars are balanced and have a succulent, melodic effect. When the gaiting drums pick up momentum, the tremolos and rhythmic hooks are inserted. While the earlier album was somewhat muddy Esoterica this time has improved the song dynamics with a notable focus on the guitars. ‘Thrall of Winter’s Majesty‘ is wonderfully crafted. The songs are played at a mid-tempo pace. The keyboards provide a cozy ambiance whereas the gaiting drums take many shifts. The second track ‘O’er Winters Shroud‘ is seemingly focused to create a calming ambiance. Here the duo evokes the hallmark sound of the fantasy realm. In spite of the subtle similarities to bands like Summoning, Ringarë’s second album is more than an average black metal album.

Wrought by the atmospheric and ambient arrangements of the synth and rhythmic drum beats, this instrumental track fuses the elements of dungeon synth and the epic atmosphere of a movie soundtrack. The album title track ‘Thrall of Winter’s Majesty‘ is another epic and melodic track where mastermind Esoterica concentrates on technical virtuosity, hence providing fast tempo sections. The synth is used in a way to enhance the effectiveness of the composition. Despite the notable differences in the sound quality, Ringarë’s second album, unfortunately, didn’t grab me like the debut album. With only two actual songs and two instrumental tracks, I can’t help but feel there is something missing.

The album’s final song ‘A Paean for Endless Snow‘ is textured with ambient synth which sets a chilling and relaxing mood. Despite all the mixed elements and repetitiveness, the track fits as a perfect soundtrack for an epic movie. While the debut album had more appealing aspects to it, the duo will continue to unearth more of their old materials from the archives. Recommended for fans of Emyun Muil, Eldamar, and Caladan Brood.

Release Date: April 21st, 2021
Label: Amor Fati Productions
Track list:

1. Witness to Winter’s Lament
2. O’er Winters Shroud
3. Thrall of Winter’s Majesty
4. A Paean for Endless Snow