Artist: Dead Can Dance Album: Aion

Year: 1990
Duration: 0:0-1

A Critical Review of Dead Can Dance's Album Aion

Dead Can Dance is a unique music duo that has been active since 1981. They are known for their signature blend of medieval, gothic, world music and neo-classical sounds. Aion is one of the notable albums that they released in 1990 that showcases their expertise in mixing different music genres. In this blog, we are going to look at Aion, the genre it belongs to, its best songs, the most innovative parts, and how it fared as an album.

Aion is a world music album that is in line with Dead Can Dance's history of exploring various cultures and musical styles. The album has influences from greek folk, middle eastern, renaissance, and african music. It was recorded in a beautifully executed manner and the sound quality is phenomenal. The use of traditional instruments such as the Bagpipes, Yangqin, and Daff, among others, create an immersive musical experience.

One of the best songs on the album is 'Saltarella'. The song is based on a traditional Calabrian ritual dance in Italy. It's a lively track that is characterized by a fast-paced drumming beat, and the sound of the accordion and hurdy-gurdy. Lisa Gerrard's chanting vocals blend perfectly with the instrumental sounds.

Another standout track is 'The Arrival and the Reunion'. The song is an instrumental exotica that sets an entrancing mood. It's like a musical journey through the desert, with a hypnotic soundscape created by a repetitive melody and the use of the oud, a middle eastern instrument. The track is a fine example of Dead Can Dance's ability to create soundscapes without the need for lyrics.

The most innovative part of Aion is its ability to mix different genres with ease. The track 'Fortune Presents Gifts Not According to the Book' is an excellent example. It combines a medieval chant with North African instruments such as the Bendir, and the Ney. Brendan Perry's vocals are sung in a way that evokes an old-world charm with a hint of mystery. The mix of genres adds to the overall enjoyment of the album.

While Aion has many good qualities, it can be argued that it's not as strong as some of Dead Can Dance's previous works. Some of the tracks can feel a bit too repetitive and the instrumental sections can drag on. That said, Aion is still a worthwhile listen for those who are interested in world music and the blending of various musical styles.

In conclusion, Aion is an excellent album that showcases Dead Can Dance's ability to blend different genres, create immersive soundscapes, and experiment with traditional instruments. The use of traditional instruments creates a mystical vibe that transports the listener to faraway lands. While the album may not be perfect, it's still one that is worth exploring for those curious about world music, medieval and multi-cultural sounds. If you haven't listened to Aion, it's worth giving it a try.