Artist: Dead Can Dance Album: Anastasis

Year: 2012
Duration: 56:24

Exploring the Musical Masterpiece Anastasis by Dead Can Dance

Exploring new and different forms of music is always an exciting venture. One such musical adventure is found in the works of Dead Can Dance and their album Anastasis. This amazing album has been talked about in music circles for its innovative take on music genres and, of course, the sheer brilliance of its composition. This blog post takes a deep dive into the album, giving you a brief history of the band Dead Can Dance, and providing a critical review of Anastasis to help you decide if it's worth your time.

Dead Can Dance is an Australian band that combines music genres from around the world, including medieval music, Middle Eastern music, African rhythms and percussion, and traditional European folk music. The band has been active since 1981 and has released several albums. Anastasis was released in 2012, after a 16-year break from recording. The band has grown and evolved over the years, and Anastasis is seen as a triumphant return to the music world, replete with new concepts and styles.

The album is, in essence, a musical journey that blends different styles and atmospheres to create a cohesive whole. The band's experimental approach to music genres has led to Anastasis showcasing a wide range of sounds and textures. Additionally, the album features extensive use of various musical instruments, including percussion, strings, and brass, that add to the mesmeric aura that Anastasis projects. The sound of each track is distinctly unique, with songs like Children of the Sun and Kiko bringing forth the Middle Eastern flavor of the album.

Among the most innovative parts of the album are the vocals by singers Lisa Gerrard and Brendan Perry. The duo has been the band's driving force since its inception and, in Anastasis, their vocals are nothing short of magical. The style of singing they employ is completely unique and is why Dead Can Dance is often referred to as a Gothic band. The vocals are very emotive, powerful, and profound, and are instrumental in conveying the deep themes of the album.

Choosing the best track on Anastasis is difficult, as every single one of them stands out in their own right. That being said, Anabasis is the standout track of the album. The song has a very strong rhythm and a clear structure that is accompanied by an intense vocal performance that showcases the best of Gerrard and Perry.

Though the album is a triumph, it's not without its flaws. Anastasis is a lengthy, 8-track album that may seem never-ending to some listeners. The band's experimental approach may also not appeal to every listener, especially those who prefer a more conventional sound or musical structure.

In conclusion, Anastasis is an exceptional album that carries forth Dead Can Dance's tradition of innovative music that blends styles and cultures to create a unique experience. With its mesmeric sound, unique vocals, and powerful themes, Anastasis is a timeless masterpiece that highlights the talents of Dead Can Dance. While the album may not be for everyone, it is an incredible accomplishment that shows why Dead Can Dance is truly a band like no other. So go ahead, give it a listen and experience the magic of Anastasis for yourself.