Mirror of the Middle Ages

Mirror of the Middle Ages
The Soil Bleeds Black
Dungon Record
(FD013)

Mirror of the Middle Ages, the sixth and latest offering from gothic neo-medieval band The Soil Bleeds Black, in many ways reflects medieval music, but the image it returns is less like that seen in a mirror than of that found in a secluded lake-filled with hidden depths and strange distortions. Whether an original piece or an adaptation of an age-old tune, all the tunes are recognizable as medieval, but with a shadowy undercurrent that sets it apart from typical neo-medieval music. This gothic twist should delight those with darker sensibilities, but even those more used to lighter fare should appreciate this fascinating collection.

Unlike some of their previous efforts, The Soil Bleeds Black relies almost exclusively on traditional instruments and vocals, with almost no electronic embellishment or alteration. Only the final track, a techno remix of "Palastinalied," contains these modern elements. The result comes off sounding almost better than the original since the increased tempo and electronic elements tend to balance the bizarrely raspy vocals of the original (which is also included on the CD). This awkward vocal styling is found in several tracks on the CD; although the apparent intent is to make the music sound rustic and rough, the effect is often more reminiscent of inebriated Muppets than anything medieval.

Much more sinister is "Ring Around the Rosey," a perverse adaptation of the children's rhyme that hearkens back to its origins as an ode to the plague that decimated Europe during the Middle Ages. The sing-song tone and eerie traditional instruments create a sense of deep unease, forcefully juxtaposing past and present as the seemingly innocuous rhyme collides with its disturbing original message.

" Kyrie Eleison" and "Veni, Veni E mmanuel" reveal the holier aspects of the medieval world, with resonant vocals and delicate instrumentation. The spare accompaniment of bells, organ, and strings is particularly haunting on "Veni," casting a fresh light onto a piece of music most of us associate with Christmas carols. Also represented here are several more convivial tunes, including "In Taberna Quando Sumus," a brassy drinking song that bellows its way into the listener's imagination.

A far cry from the typical neo-medieval band, The Soil Bleeds Black infuses its music with a sepulchral air that seems supremely suited to the often-dark realities of medieval life. Although uneven at times, Mirror of the Middle Ages is a rewarding glimpse through the glass darkly for anyone brave enough to look.

--Richard Mackenzie