WAER000
Za Frûmi - Za shum ushatar Uglakh
Full length CD, 11 Tracks, Chapter 1 in the Za Frûmi Saga, the Cult masterpiece filled with soundscapes and more ethnic and medieval instruments than one can count, dialogue in Black Tongue.

Listen to an Excerpt

14 Euro / 14 USD / 149:- SEK

Reviews of Za shum ushatar Uglakh (chapter 1)

" Imagine the No Neck Blues Band jamming with Jonathan Coleclough or Andrew Chalk, with Chris Barnes (Cannibal Corpse) or Glenn Benton (Deicide) grunting the dialogue with the Thai Elephant Orchestra as their rhythm section. It's that weird. It's that cool. " - Aquarius Records - San fransisco

"Eine Mischung aus Hörspiel und grandioser Musik. Für die, die des orkischen nicht mächtig sind, findet sich im Booklet der CD eine Übersetzung der Dialoge." - Elbenwald - Germany
(translated: A mix of Theatrical dialoge and grandiose Music. For you that not finds the orcish powerfull as it is, finds a translation in the booklet)

"Flöjt och trummor för fram en suggestiv och nästan hypnotiserande musikform som både fungerar som avslappning och kreativ tankeväckare. Jag har nog lyssnat på skivan 25 gånger, och den håller verkligen" - Bo Kjellson Syskonskapet - The largest Lrp site in Sweden
(translated: Flute and drums make way for a suggestive and almost hypnotic musical form that works both as relaxation and creative inspiration. I have listened to the cd 25 times and it´s still great.)

"The most intresting recent recordings out of middle-earth is the Swedish orc group Za frumis debut CD Za shum Ushatar Uglakh" -Erik Davies - Wired Magazine

"Za shum ushatar Uglakh certainly is a unique and intresting one" - Roberto - Maelstrom Magazine

"The best cd of the year 2001 in dark beautiful music!" - Jim Dickinson - Dark treasure Magazine

"A must for ALL fans of The Lord of the Rings. I was swept away in the same way as when reading Tolkien for the first time" - Greg Brooks - Transformation Magasine

"NjutningsBetyg 5 av 5... Skivan är underbar att bara lyssna på, slappna av till eller ha gåendes i bakgrunden eller när du skriver äventyr eller skapar rollpersoner." - Christer Sahlén - Codex - The largest Roleplaying magazine in Sweden
(Translated: For pleasure 5 out of 5... The record is wonderfull to listen to, relax to or to have in the background or when you write adventures or create roleplaying characters)

Full Reviews:

Aquarius records
Let me preface this review by mentioning that Allan has never read The Lord Of The Rings (even with his extensive D&D experience...hmmm). Za Frumi is a group of Swedish musicians, disenchanted with the black metal scene, and the music scene in general, who were compelled to look elsewhere for the magic and mystery they felt was lacking in modern music. The result is 'Za Shum Ushatar Uglakh', a musical tale of a clan of orcs and their battle against a mighty vampire lord! That's right, orcs.
The story goes like this (from the liner notes):
"Join the epic voyage of the orc leader Uglakh and his compatriots. Their adventure begins in the deep lustrous forest filled with the sounds of the wild and the roar of a great fire. Around it sit the Uruki Uglach, awaiting the mysterious primal dance of their shaman. The morning after, the uruks, compelled by their mystic shamans advice to Uglach, attack an old castle. After the raid, the subservient Golug Fachtal and his more adventurous kinsmen Yagul forage the forest, and set out to build a watch tower. After a frustrated argument about a toadstool, the wet Yagul and the other orcs begin building a tower, while the dagalush Knish and his kapuli friend go further afield, and find a deep sea beach, where the melodious elves are making sweet music. Later, we join the clans march during a night filled with wonder. They press constantly on, sometimes marching, sometimes sneaking. After a short stroll in the forest, Uglakh and his clansmen happen upon the dark, brooding castle of the dreaded vampire Ismael. The journey through his dark castle has two parts, with mysterious subterranean chanting and majestic orchestral sounds. They face many perils there, and end in the final battle with Ismael in his greatest chamber."

Much like a radio play, the whole drama is played out via dialogue (more on that later), ambient sounds and incidental music.

So simply as a musical story, utilising dark ambience, cinematic soundscapes, the sounds of life in the forest (sticks crackling, wind blowing, water splashing, swords clashing) and a litany of grunts and growls, which is the dialogue spoken entirely in orcish (for real! -- a handy translation is included in the booklet for those not fluent in the tongue). It's really interesting and quite entertaining.
But the music, taken on its own, is quite an epic dronescape (albiet littered with very un-drone like segments). 'Za Shum...' is a strange mix of dark rumbles and throbbing pulses, simple clattery rhythms and tribal workouts, grunting and growling and roaring (that could be electronic rumbles or misplaced death metal vocalists if you didn't already know it was orcs) and the occasional folky flute interlude.
Imagine the No Neck Blues Band jamming with Jonathan Coleclough or Andrew Chalk, with Chris Barnes (Cannibal Corpse) or Glenn Benton (Deicide) grunting the dialogue with the Thai Elephant Orchestra as their rhythm section. It's that weird. It's that cool.

(Aquarius records is a great store in San fransisco and they sell Za frumi records)

Elbenwald (in German):
Za Frûmi ist eine Gruppe von Künstlern, die sich auf dieser CD von den Uruk-Hai haben inspirieren lassen. "Za shum ushatar Uglakh" ist die Geschichte eines Ork-Clans im Kampf gegen einen Vampir-Lord. Eine Mischung aus Hörspiel und grandioser Musik. Für die, die des orkischen nicht mächtig sind, findet sich im Booklet der CD eine Übersetzung der Dialoge.

(Elbenwald also sell Za shum ushatar Uglakh)

Transformation Magasine:
When I first heard Za Frûmi I understood what I had been missing! I adored Mortiis but this was something else. Not so simple and with the absence of obvious keyboard sounds. It appears that Za frumi have not used any electric instruments at all.
This is a must for ALL fans of The Lord of the Rings. I was swept away in the same way as when reading Tolkien for the first time.
The Album is called Za shum ushatar Uglakh which means "the great warrior Uglakh" and the band come from Sweden. There is a huge dark choir on three tracks and that really blows you away. It´s so dark and so intense! I turned all my lights off and only lit a single candle. Then I turned the volume to almost the maximum. Readers, this cd will make you forget about everything in this world we live in.
On Za shum ushatar Uglakh we follow a group of orcs on there journey. The orcs sneak, hide, fight (twice), build a tower and more. It´s a mystical and dark world you glimpse for about 55 min. when listening to Za shum ushatar Uglakh.
Greg Brooks - Transformation Magasine

Dark Treasure Magazine:
When this cd first fell into my mailbox, I was amused and slightly sceptical as to the musical quality of the music. It seemed such a crazy idea that there must be a catch somewhere. If not, why hadn't I heard of these guys before? A Swedish band, Za Frûmi are new to the world, although the minds behind the project have been making music in various forms for over 10 years. They have roots in such diverse musical styles as Psychedelic trance, classical music, black metal and fantasy/ambient. While flicking through the CD booklet my interest was piqued. Orcish? Would this be sung or spoken? I had no idea, but I was eager at once to find out. I was going to need the translation to understand what was happening. The first thing I noticed when the music started was the dark, suggestive undertone. Slowly I felt myself slipping away as the story began for real. The next thing I knew, an hour had passed, and something weird had happened. I was TOTALLY immersed in the sequence of events that lead up to and include the orcs confrontation. The music was fascinating, original and sometimes terrifyingly intense. Flutes, drums, didgeridoo, and anything else you can think of combine masterfully to create a unique musical experience. I listen to the cd often, and it has great replay value. I still get as lost in the tale as the first time i listened to it. This is absolutely, in my opinion, the best cd of the year 2001 in dark, beautiful music!
-Jim Dickinson, Dark Treasure Magazine

Skivan alla borde ha? (only in swedish)
Av Christian Sahlén (Codex)
Njutnings betyg 5 av 5 (Till rollspelsmötet 3 av 5)
Ljudet av fotsteg, en gnäggande häst och en orchs grymtande. Så börjar skivan som alla fantasyrollspelare bör ta sig en titt på. Skivan heter Za shum ushatar Uglakh och är den första från gruppen som kallar sig Za frumi. Den låter oss följa med på en resa tillsammans med orchledaren Uglakh och hans grupp när de attackerar vampyren Ismaels slott. Givetvis är det på svartiska, men man behöver inte oroa sig. I häftet finns allt översatt till Engelska. Za frumi är visserligen en svensk grupp, men har lyckats sprida sin musik bra mycket längre än så. Skivan säljs över hela världen och många tidningar och medier har börjat uppmärksamma den. Att Wired med en upplaga på 2,1 miljoner är bevis nog på det. Hur låter den då? Som sagt introspåret börjar med fotsteg, hästar och lite grymtanden, snart kommer dock historien igång och vi bjuds på orchvrålanden, trummor, didgeridoo och en massa annat. Extra noterbart är mötet med alverna på spåret Albai (alver). Vi bjuds här på härlig sång och flöjtspelande. Medusa körens arbete på Za Ismael kala är också en härlig upplevelse. Simon Kölle, Simon Heath och Donald Persson, tre lajvare och musiker som står bakom namnet Za frumi. De har skapat en fantasy som skiljer från mängden. Men passar den för att använda som stämningsmusik till rollspel? Nja blir mitt svar. Precis som de flesta skivor som recenserats i denna tidning så har den sina brister. Spelleder du en svartfolkskampanj i en gammal version av drakar och demoner eller kanske Dungeons & Dragons så är den här skivan ett måste, i annat fall klarar du dig utan den. På spelmötet vill säga. Skivan är underbar att bara lyssna på, slappna av till eller ha gåendes i bakgrunden eller när du skriver äventyr eller skapar rollpersoner. Eftersom skivan är så speciell får den två olika betyg, ett som går att jämföra med de andra betygen i tidningen och ett som grundar sig på hur bra skivan är och inte hur den passar till spelmötet.
(Codex is the most read rolplaying magasine in Sweden)

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WAER001
Za Frûmi - Tach
Full length CD, 17 Tracks, Chapter 2 in the Za Frûmi Saga, the continuation of the Za Frûmi saga, filled with even more instruments than played on the first album and the 17 tracks contain loads of soundscapes recorded in various castles, forests and dark caves during the recording of this album.

Listen to an Excerpt

14 Euro / 14 USD / 149:- SEK

Reviews of Tach (chapter 2)

"Tach: Chapter 2 is the continuation of this fascinating journey complete with the incredible artwork, illustrations, and lyrics/descriptions detailing the Orcs journey. ABSOLUTELY SPELLBINDING!!! "
- Dark Symphonies

"All fans of Lord of the Rings should get this one because the atmosphere of the album is as dark as the atmosphere of Tolkien´s book!"
- Agonia Magasine - Michael Druml

" Die Songs kommen einerseits sehr tanzbar und explosiv rüber und andererseits spielen viele atmosphärische Passagen eine Rolle"
- Broken seal

"The booklet and packaging with this cd is stunning. There’s original artwork on every page and the lyrics are contained within, as well as annotated story lines. The booklet even smells great! (on new purchase)."
- Golden Lake - Adam Chapman

"Best musical recreation of Tolkien`s universe ever put to music!"
- Tenser records - Fernando Reis

Full Reviews:

Golden Lake Magazine:
Score 98/100
This dark fantasy ambient CD is really something to savour. Za Frumi, from Stockholm, provides us with 17 tracks of accomplished sonic-soundscapes. The sheer variety of instruments and rhythmical nature of all the tracks really elevate this composition onto a plane of it’s own. This isn’t typical ambient music and it’s certainly not dreary and boring like the majority of dirge available these days! The ambient scene has needed something special since Arcana are doing nothing new these days and Mortiis went all techno. Anyway, forget Mortiis as this really puts his records to shame. These guys certainly know how to compose and play their instruments. The duo uses a mixture of real live instruments and computer sequencing to create their tracks and there isn’t a single sounding unnatural timbre on the entire album. The production is mighty fine, recorded and mixed in their studio, creating a very relaxing and pleasant atmosphere. The music is fairly technical and doesn’t just flow along aimlessly. The thing you will immediately notice are the complex rhythmic drum patterns throughout, you really get the visual imagery of the story in your head when reading the booklet and listening along. As the entire album is based on a story of a band of travelling Orcs the music is fairly similar throughout but does not get repetitive or boring. High and low pitch-shifted grunt vocals create the dialogue between the Orcs, which is spoken entirely in their native language (Orcish).
The booklet and packaging with this cd is stunning. There’s original artwork on every page and the lyrics are contained within, as well as annotated story lines. The booklet even smells great! (on new purchase).
There really isn’t a bad thing I can say about this CD, so if this sounds like your kind of thing then buy it!
98/100
- Adam Chapman, Golden Lake Magazine.

Agonia Magasine
When I got an E-Mail introducing to Za Frumi and read about their concept, I knew I had to get this Cd, because the concept seemed very interesting to me: The adventures of a group of orcs with dialoges spoken entirely in orcish language. Some days later I had the album in my postbox and I was very curious. First of all I have to say that the booklet is very beautyful with great drawings and a translation of the dialoges of the orcs( which is good as don´t understand orcish!) Musicwise there are no metal parts on this album although the band has roots in swedish and norwegian Black Metal scene, the music is much based on the rythm of the drums which makes it sounding sometimes a bit ritualistic. But there are also very beautyful parts with flute that are more in the ambient vein and sounds of nature that where recorded in forests, caves lakes and so on. The only vocal performance on the album is the talking of the orcs. All in all it sounds much like a radio play. You can notice that the band spent a lot of time and energy on creating concept and music but it was really worth it because something completely new was created. All fans of Lord of the Rings should get this one because the atmosphere of the album is as dark as the atmosphere of Tolkien´s book!
- Michael Druml

Monster Magasine nr 2. 2002
4.0 out of 5.0
Troll, orcs and dark forests are something that symbolises Za Frûmi´s symphonic music. Clan drumes and some use of keyboards make you remember Mortiis early work. But Za Frûmi are MUCH more. They have created more fantasy and a deeper mental balance on their latest album called "Tach". And they of you who have missed the first chapter, made by this darkmen, should get it right away.
"Za shum ushatar Uglakh" was the first chapter in the tale of Uglakh and his clan and with "Tach" the story go further.
This time (on Tach) it´s not deadly beasts that stop the clan. No, it´s a shaman that direct the proud warriors on a strange journey. I have to admit that the band have really made it, creating a really good story that lead us into dark places.
This make the whole story more atractive then ever.
To listen to the album is like making an inner journey beyond time and space. To a wonderful fantasy world.
All of you who liked old Mortiis, buy this or be slaves of time!
- Markus Sjöqvist

Broken seal
Aus Schweden kommt ja bekannterweise sehr oft guter Stoff in Sachen Etheral und Industrial und so verhält es sich auch mit Za frumi. Die Band spielt eine Mischung aus Mittelalter und Tribal Ambient. Die Songs kommen einerseits sehr tanzbar und explosiv rüber und andererseits spielen viele atmosphärische Passagen eine Rolle. Mittelalterliches Ambiente trifft auf elektronische Sounds. Als Soundtrack für Herr der Ringe wäre „Tach“ sicher auch nicht verkehrt. Flöten, Schellen, Pauken, Keyboards, verschiedenste Percussion-Elemente, Naturgeräusche, Samples von „Kobolden“, Orgeln usw.. versprühen ein lebendiges, mystisches Ambiente, dem man sich schwer entziehen. Za Frumi ist somit absolut empfehlenswert!

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WAER002
Za Frûmi - Legends (Act 1)
Full length CD, 11 Tracks, Act 1 in the instrumental Legends series. This album filled with medieval and fantasy atmospheres tells music from the majestic dwarven wars to the great cleansing lead by the dark order Vasilievich. With the Legends series Za Frûmi take a step away from the dialogue-driven albums in the "Za Frûmi Saga".

Listen to an Excerpt

14 Euro / 14 USD / 149:- SEK

Reviews of Legends (Act 1)

When you think Ring Wraiths and Golem and all that, do you think
'this would go great with some new age music'? Neither do we. So come
on Peter Jackson, here's your chance to add some credibility to the LOTR
soundtrack/score for part three!! COME ON!!!"
-Aquarius records

"Maelstrom loves Za Frûmi"
-Maelstrom Magasine - Roberto Martinelli

"The whole cd are legends from the world of Za frûmi. The third song is
a masterpiece. It´s called The Olog forest. I have listen to it more then
10 times now and every time i travel (in my mind) to a strange place.
It´s like being a child again! I get so totaly into to that song."
- Musical zone - David Purdie

"many of the tracks are absolutely excellent in their playful,
picturesque fashion. A grand example is the excellent The Olog
Forest, which name perfectly describes its gloomy and dense atmospheres.
Fairytale tinged melodies play around each other over murky goblin drums.
On random occasions, a swarm of bees is heard, perhaps attacking an unwary
Olog trying to steal their precious honey."
- Ortus obscurum - Ectonaut

"Za Frumi has uniquely composed a series of soundscapes, aligning perfectly with the writings of Tolkien. Their work successfully transports you back to Middle Earth, into a land separate from one's immediate reality. This music is perfect to read by, write by, meditate or fall asleep to."
- DJ Raven, KBGA college radio

Full Reviews:

Musical zone - David Purdie
"From Waerloga records comes this wonderful and dark cd called Legends act 1. The band: Za frûmi is a duo from Sweden. Simon Kölle and Simon Heath are masters in creating a mystical atmosphere. The cd start of with the brilliant Dwarven wars. My first thoughts about it was why these guys not are doing music for huge movies in Hollywood? In one way i am glad they don´t, couse Hollywood are not good enough for them. The second song is as far as i understand inspired by the image of a keep and it´s legendary master called Azoot oh´Khan. It´s really dark.
The whole cd are legends from the world of Za frûmi. The third song is a masterpiece. It´s called The Olog forest. I have listened to it more then 10 times now and every time i travel (in my mind) to a strange place. It´s like being a child again! I get so totaly into to that song.
This cd is really good and it´s hard for me when i try to find at least one negative detail to say about it. After some serious thought i have to give up! The booklet could be with more pages maybe.
Rumors say Za frûmi are doing a cd only inspired with vampires! If that´s true and it´s as good as Legends act 1 i will rank Za frûmi as one of the 10 best bands ever."

Ortus obscurum - Ectonaut
"The first thing which strikes me when listening to this album is that Za Frûmi has really matured since their previous release. Tach had its moments, still my general impression of it was that it was weak and that the dialogues were quite annoying. I'm pleased to say Za Frûmi's sound is much stronger on this album. There are still some small flaws in the production, yet I mostly feel repelled from quibbling over small matters such as these. The atmosphere has certainly been enhanced and many of the tracks are absolutely excellent in their playful, picturesque fashion. A grand example is the excellent The Olog Forest, which name perfectly describes its gloomy and dense atmospheres. Fairytale tinged melodies play around each other over murky goblin drums. On random occasions, a swarm of bees is heard, perhaps attacking an unwary Olog trying to steal their precious honey.
Generally, the music is centred around jolly melodies and hard-hitting percussion, the latter being one of the aspects which Za Frûmi has decide leaven to this album. The music is for the most computermade with few exceptions. It adds a certain atmosphere to the music, a slight nostalgia of the days when everything wasn't crystal-clear. The are some drones and some samples but generally, the music is totally built upon traditional instruments such as piano, trumpet, flute, oboe and bell-clangs, totally instrumental in nature.
When it comes to Za Frûmi incorporating dialogues in their music, their previous album Tach was a much better example of this. Legends - act 1 is the first album in series of Za Frûmi albums that deals with different themes than on their usual releases. There's not as much dialogue as before, hardly any as far as I can hear and instead the music has got a bigger role. Still, there are written texts that comes with some of the tracks, yet they aren't spoken out loud in the music.
Za Frûmi's continues displaying their polyphonic rhapsodies throughout this entire album. Their music has originality and I find it hard to sort into one particular folder. It can best be described as a mutation between (old-school) Computer Role-playing/Fantasy Strategy Game music, Industrial/Neo-classical music and Neomedieval music. My guess is that fans of projects like Summoning, old Mortiis or fantasy influenced music in general will find this album appreciable. Some of the best tracks if you ask me is the majestic Dwarven Wars, the devious Azoot oh' Khans Keep, Midnight with its nocturnal mood and of course, Za Shulg with its wolven reveille and gracefully descending atmosphere.
In conclusion, this release was a positive experience. I already sensed potential on their previous release so it wasn't really a surprise however. It is nice to see that there is music emerging from the Fantasy movement. This culture has proved to be very rich in bringing life to old themes and aesthetics and enhancing them to almost saturated extents. Yet I sense that there has been little activity on the music side in this culture and I hope this is going to change. Za Frûmi certainly shows that it can be done."

Aquarius records
"Why get Enya for the Lord Of The Rings movies when there is a perfectly good, dwarf/orc obsessed combo, composing dark, vaguely rennaissance faire-ish dark ambient soundscapes that would work PERECTLY. And I'm sure they're cheaper than Enya. And come on. When you think Ring Wraiths and Golem and all that, do you think 'this would go great with some new age music'? Neither do we. So come on Peter Jackson, here's your chance to add some credibility to the LOTR soundtrack/score for part three!! COME ON!!! Anyway Za Frumi are a Swedish group who create fantastical worlds with orcs and dwarves and battles and journeys and all the D&D stuff we love. Their classic remains their debut record Za Shum Ushatar Uglakh where dark and ominous soundscapes were peppered with dialogue (IN ORCISH!!!) as well as battles and celebrations. Really strange and totally appealing. Their second disc didn't move us as much as the first, and while Legends is not necessarily a "return to form" we do like it a lot more than the last one. The focus is still on the music, having apparently discarded the dialogue and sound effects completely, which is fine, but unfortunately it moves Za Frumi from that niche where they were basically the ONLY band doing what they were doing, to the more populated field of Cold Meat / dark ambient. Fans of Dead Can Dance, Summoning Moon Lay Hidden Beneath A Cloud, Empyrium and other dark ambient will dig this a lot!! Very dark and cinematic and quite pretty, in an ominous sort of way. Rumour has it that they're working on a new record about vampires! Here's hoping it's as weird a record as we know they're capable of making!"

Maelstrom magasine - Roberto Martinelli
Maelstrom loves Za Frûmi. The mere fact that this dark ambient project is all about orcs and in Orc (the language. Yeah, it exists) makes it a lock to appeal to our bizarre curiosities, whether the albums are good or bad. And the last album, Tach, was bad. Regardless, we still awaited more from this wacky, D&D nerd duo from Sweden.
Legends Act 1 is an instrumental album, and it’s much better than Tach, but doesn’t approach the cult appeal of the first album, Za Shum Ushatar Uglakh. Certainly Legends Act 1 is in the same style as its two predecessors, being goofy, unique dark ambient with “medieval” sounding percussion that would be at home on Summoning albums, and synthesized silliness that inspires images of traipsing through fantasy, moss covered landscapes replete with sprites and nymphs. Watch out for the orc with the spiked club waiting for you behind the big weeping willow tree.
This image of wandering through swamps and encountering shamans with bone necklaces is especially present on Legends Act 1. Also making a welcome comeback are the choral arrangements that were so great in the first album. There should be more of them on this record and in the future. There are a few passages with brutish grunting, but sadly, no lyric sheet to broaden our steadily growing Orc vocabulary.
As one who has been following Za Frûmi’s tale of a band of orcs, I have to say I’m a little disappointed in there being no dialogue or explicit continuation of the story that came to an abrupt, “tune in next time” end on the last story. Don’t leave me hanging!

WAER003
Encryption - Secrecy
Full length CD, 11 Tracks, Minimalistic medieval music with angelic vocals.
This album illustrates a story in 2 parts. First is the story of a witch in
the late middle ages who was chased by the inquisition and the second part
is about a secret pagan order, inspired by the witch, called Ordo Libidis
in 1702. It's a very spiritual and ritualistic story, as is the music.

14 Euro / 14 USD / 149:- SEK

Review of Encryption - Secrecy

"production and recording is extremely
well, some parts could even be used as soundtrack. This debut features no
less than 11 tracks and lasts for about 40 minutes."
- www.deathmetal.be

"Heavenly voices from Medieval kingdom"
- Alan - Monitor Records

"Encryption creates atmospheric music. Sometimes neo-classic and sometimes minimalistic almost in the vein of early Mortiis. While listening to Encryption i think of Arcana, the famous CMI act."
- Musical Zone Japan - David Purdie

Musical Zone Japan, David Purdie
I feel that Secrecy is a very beautiful album, and each song is very well-written.

The tracks are in a neoclassical style with synthesized instrumentation and sparse percussion. This type of music has the tendency to totter dangerously on the precipice of becoming corny Renaissance Festival soundtrack material, but this particular endeavor never even touches that line. The instrumentation (probably all synth) are arranged and performed beautifully. Lady Clarisse´s voice is angelic but still kind of strange. You might call the voice week but after several listening´s i have to say it´s not. Encryption lack one thing in the music and that´s good native or classical drums.

In a few songs sound samples set the mood. It is sounds of gates, fire´s, wind etc. The sounds make Encryption more deep and alive. It´s very sad the sound samples are few. Encryption creates atmospheric music. Sometimes neo-classic and sometimes minimalistic almost in the vein of early Mortiis. While listening to Encryption i think of Arcana, the famous CMI act. I wish Encryption in the future try to get a sharper edge, use more sound samples and use more serious percussion. If they follow that advice i think they will go very far!

Monitor records
"Encryption Secrecy... In the bloody dark, ghost is howling around, just like souls fly and reach the sky...Heavenly voices from Medieval kingdom... Enigma meets Dead Can Dance and Jack or Jive? First release under Waerloga records for the Dark Medieval group from Belgium. Recommended"
- Alan -

www.deathmetal.be
"Set in Medieval Times this album revolves around witchcraft. Consisting of
merely two musicians, Lady Clarysse, female vocals (ex-Avatar) and
Lacrimas, keys (Lugburz), they play a blend of simplistic gothic with
renaissance touches throughout. Church chants are abundant on this release,
a few session musicians added their mark too on "Secrecy". These
atmospheric compositions are in fact droning, and in that it is related to
the doom genre minus guitars. However there are no real surprises to be
found, since most tracks sound very similar. Enjoyable as chamber music it
features lots of synthesizer effects, production and recording is extremely
well, some parts could even be used as soundtrack. This debut features no
less than 11 tracks and lasts for about 40 minutes. Rather originally, it
is separated into two distinct chapters in time which makes the concept
interesting. The cover art reflects the second chapter, and was
painstakingly created by Jan Yrlund. Recommendable for dark romantic souls."


From StillBorn extreme music zine 2004
"First album for the Belgian duet developed by Lacrimas and Lady Clarisse in the DarkMedieval project called Encryption for the swedish "Waerloga Records" that we remember for Za Frûmi (already reviewed on these pages).
Secrecy is a magical album of mystic.. it´s a concept album acclimated in the period of the hunting of the witches and tells the story of Clarisse, suspected of sorcery for her knowledge in the field of the medicinal grasses.. the story tells us about a day while she is invoking the spirits is interrupted by the vicar, that take the heretics.
She escapes and leave the rite incomplete, takes refuge in a neglected castle and are tormented by the invoked spirits... in the castle Clarisse become crazy and soon she dies.. and on the castle lay a curse.
150 years after her death a young nobleman buy the castle even thou he had been advised not to do so by the people of the close villages because it is known for it´s curse.. he do not listen to them and entering the castle. Weird events occur, he hear screems, objects are moved by themself, creaks and noises.
The nobleman try to contact the spirits to understand them better. He entrusts the ordo Libidis to do it, a secret group of rich people that want to explore the mysteries of the dead. Ordo Libidis succeed to meet the spirits and to conclude the rite, and to free the castle from it´s spirits.
All this told perfectly by "Encryption". The magical journey in the medieval castle and Encryption make it alive to us: the magical rite and the contact with worlds to whom we are strangers.. To follow the story with the booklet in hand is very pleasent. It succeeds better with the booklet and music on than the fine work of music, the keyboards played by Lacrimas and the fantastic voice of Lady Clarisse work alone."

From Mind view december 2003:
"At last, Belgium has given birth to a dark-wave band which creates music in the vein of Weltenbrand, Autumn Tears, Die Verbannten Kinder Evas etc. Encryption consists of composer Lacrimas (ex-Trollrath) and female vocalist Lady Clarisse, who - merely by playing with vocals, heavy keyboards, samples and sporadic percussion - create a wonderful atmosphere around the medieval legendary secret Ordo Libidis. It sounds like a neo-classical soundtrack. It's nice and dark, slow, sometimes romantic, then again ominous, but more importantly: it's very good."

WAER004
Za Frûmi - Legends Act 2 - Vampires
Full length CD, 10 Tracks, Act 2 in the instrumental Legends series.
This album is inspired by the legends of two vampires (Jakesh and Rianji). Mystical, dark, fantasy and well played are words to describe the music. The booklet is rich with beautiful artwork and texts. Za Frûmi have really outdone themselves with this masterpiece!

Listen to an Excerpt

14 Euro / 14 USD / 149:- SEK

Reviews of Legends Act 2 - Vampires

"As ambient projects go, Za Frumi have to be regarded as one of the best purely for the variety of arrangements and styles."
- Golden Lake magasine - Frasier

"Legends act 2 vampires just overflows with intense emotion, incredible power, and
indescribable beauty."
- Musical zone Japan - David Purdie

"I can best set this music accompanying a late night, role playing ‘Vampire:The Dark Ages’ – it really is well suited to that environment. It’s also easy to hear why this sounds like the soundtrack to a film not released."
- Keith Elcombe - Hard Wired

"Haunted house organs, operatic female vocals, classical piano, horns and flutes, swirling strings, galloping horses, chirping crickets, ghostly disembodied voices, minor key melodies, and all sorts of military drums, tablas and various percussion coalesce into one seriously mysterious creepy crawl through the world of the Vampires!"
- Aquarius records in San fran

"Perfect illustrations in the booklet with great artistic touch"
- Folkowa web zine - Taclem

"Again good music on their last production: Legends Act 2"
- Infratunes

"Indeed, Za Frumi has turned us all into total nerds. Za Frumi nerds. But with good cause, as Za Frumi’s take on the dark ambient genre is unmistakable, kind of like going on a RPG expedition through a fantasy swamp, filled with the soundtrack of the bog and the tress and the insects and the voices of the spirits that inhabit the place. Legends Act 2:Vampires is a fine progression for these two guys. May their careers long continue."
- Maelstrom Zine - Roberto Martinelli

"The cd has beautiful melodies from heaven and sound like something between Dead Can Dance and Unto Ashes."
- Monitor records Hong Kong - Alan

By David Purdie - Musical zone Japan issue 51

This is the second act in the Za Frûmi Legends.
One of the finest Za Frûmi recordings that I have heard. Very distinctive stuff from the Swedes Simon Kolle and Simon Heath that are the core of Za Frûmi. I guess a lot of it is difficult to describe. What it is, is very, very good music. Za Frûmi has wonderful tone and control. The sound is unique.
It´s two legends of vampires with five songs each. The first five songs is about the lonely, slighty mad and powerfull vampire called Jakesh. His story is told very well in text (in the booklet) and with the music (no lyrics). Of the five Jakesh songs "Halls of madness" and "Morning dew" strike me as being the best.
The other five songs is about a female vampire called Rianji. She is the leader of a huge cult in the east (in the world of Za Frûmi) and in my imagination she looks like a very beautiful Egyptian women from the times where pyramids where build by slaves. When listening to songs 6-10 (the Rianji songs) i started to smell something in my house. It was the smell of an ancient world and incenses. No it was not me that had not cleaned the house! It was the music of Za Frûmi that had transported me to another world.
The Rianji songs have Very good tribal drumes and melodies which i find strange and interesting. Almost like good Japanese Jazz. But it´s not jazz! It´s far better than any jazz i have heard! "Shadow Twin" touches me the most and is the best song, but "Blood slaves" and "The cult of Rianji" are very well played too. "Crematoria" is true darkness. Almost like Heath and Kolle gone of to do darkwave, but then as you think you figured out the structure of the song they break it up and a rich and delicate song reveals itself.
The Rianji songs have gentle ethnic instrumentation on flute and strings.
Za Frûmi have taken their music to a completely new dimension as "Legends act 2 vampires" just overflows with intense emotion, incredible power, and indescribable beauty.
If this where the only stile Za Frûmi where playing it had been enough and good, but Za Frûmi also have the "Za Frûmi saga" don´t forget that dear readers! In that series we follow a brave group of orcs with the fearsome leader Uglakh in charge. What happened to them on Tach? We might found out on Za Frûmi´s upcomming cd as i just learned by Waerloga records that they are heading into the studio very soon to record chapter 3 in the "Za Frûmi saga"!
The booklet: pictures and text on Legends act 2 Vampires are very good. I had only one remark on Legends act 1 and that was the thin booklet. On Legends act 1 the texts felt like something i could have lived without and the pictures where not something you remember.
On Legends act 2 Vampires though the booklet is filled with interesting art and the texts make the cd more deep.
On this grand CD Za Frûmi layers strings, orchestra, solo ethnic instruments, and solo vocals (no lyrics) over one another to the point where they can each be heard, but none is dominant. Za Frûmi are able to do that. Mix the good of many stiles and not end up with a postmodern soap which no one really understand and not end up with some modern version of historical music like Enya and Clannad are good (bad) examples of.
This is the best CD that I've listened to in a long time!

/David Purdie

By Frasier Golden Lake magasine

Some of you may have heard this ambient project before as they are quite prolific in their releases. If you are into acts such as Arcana and Elend then this will appeal. Za Frumi however, are more complex and multidimensional than Arcana but not as dramatic and operatic as Elend. The moods range from somber melancholy to more upbeat film sound track style sections, with many instruments being utilized across woodwind, brass, strings and percussion. As ambient projects go, Za Frumi have to be regarded as one of the best purely for the variety of arrangements and styles.

Hard wired alternative music mayhem
By Keith Elcombe

It’s good to have another offering from Za Frumi, fairly soon after the 1st one.
Given that the style of music has not changed much, it’s best to think of this as an extension of the previous album.
Once again, the music is of medieval vein, but a little darker this time.
I can best set this music accompanying a late night, role playing ‘Vampire:The Dark Ages’ – it really is well suited to that environment. It’s also easy to hear why this sounds like the soundtrack to a film not released.
Each track stands out in it’s own right, and is meticulously crafted. The addition of ambient sound effects gives even more body to the music – horses galloping, wood burning, voices, footsteps on stone, howling wind – these add so much to the sound you could quite easily find yourself transported to another time and world.
I would say the instruments used in this release are traditional – harpsichord, voices (creating a choral effect), flute, pan pipes, medieval drumming, string instruments etc, give emphasis to the quality of delivery here. Don’t go looking for any modern instruments on this album.
Each of the 10 tracks is accompanied by a description in the CD inlay as to what the track is about – tracks such as ‘Through Jakesh eyes’ tells us of Jakesh’s view on the world, ‘Halls of Madness’ describes the scene within the halls of Jakesh’s palace, while ‘Blood slaves’ tells us of the blood slaves joining in with the dance of the dead, played out on ‘blasphemous flutes’. All strong stuff, and great if you want to completely submerge yourself in the world described within the inlay. Me, I’m happy to just listen to the music.
If this style of music is your thing, then go out and get this - you’ll love it.
It’s another good release from Za Frumi.

Infratunes (orginal written in French)

ZA FRÛMI are composed by two persons: the Swedes Simon Kölle and Simon Heath (also known for his solo project Atrium Carceri). The major inspirations are taken from dark fantasy literature, as well as the legends and nordic beliefs. Their first album, Za Shum Ushatar Uglakh, had the characteristic that it completely was written in uruk-hai, the language of the orcs. The Duet, wanted more than inspiration from Norwegian forests. So they got inspired by vampirism, more precisely the worship of Jakesh and Rianji, two vampire lords.
This cd is homages to those two. Again good music on their last production: Legends Act 2: Vampires in 2004.

Maelstrom Zine Review by: Roberto Martinelli

With each passing album that is released, Maelstrom’s fondness grows for Za Frumi, the Dungeons and Dragons loving Swedish duo and their many organic and electronic friends. Za Frumi made its indelible mark four years ago when it released the never to be equaled Za Shum Ushatar Uglakh, a concept record that told the tale of orcs, and all in orc. The albums got worse and then better, but Legends Act 2: Vampires is clearly their best sounding album yet. The trademark flutes and particular percussive elements let you know that this is a Za Frumi album, but the sound has become much richer with violins and greatly improved keyboard tones.
The ambient vocals seem to be a mix of actual choral singing and keyboard washes.
Za Frumi and Waerloga Records seem to be turning into the Spawn comic book franchise (put out by Image Comics) in that some popularity has resulted in spinoffs under the same name. The case here with Legends Act 2 is that the story does not concern orcs in the least, and thus gives us no chance to feed our closet hobby of learning new orc vocabulary by reading along with the album’s liner notes. Rather, this concept album, as the title suggests, is entirely about vampires. By merely listening to the music, you would have no idea. Rather, the signature Za Frumi style is to be listened to as you read along with the album booklet, which promises further development of the orc saga in a future Za Frumi album.
Indeed, Za Frumi has turned us all into total nerds. Za Frumi nerds. But with good cause, as Za Frumi’s take on the dark ambient genre is unmistakable, kind of like going on a RPG expedition through a fantasy swamp, filled with the soundtrack of the bog and the tress and the insects and the voices of the spirits that inhabit the place. Legends Act 2:Vampires is a fine progression for these two guys. May their careers long continue. (7/10)

Alan in Monitor records (Hong Kong):

Legends act 2 is built up by multi-orchestral layers. There are many original solo
instruments. No lyrics but some middle age vocals. The cd has beautiful melodies from heaven and sound like something between Dead Can Dance and Unto Ashes.
Or maybe Arcana that meet Elend?
Another great cd by Za Frûmi!
Highly Recomended

Aquarius records:

Our pals in Za Frumi seem to have said all they need to say about the world of the Orcs. After three discs, it was just time to move on. On to what you ask? Well, Vampires obviously. So utilising the same sonic pallet, soaring strings, flutes, midi orchestration, martial drums, and ambient soundscapes, Za Frumi explore the lives of two legendary vampires, Jakesh and Rianji. This is quite possibly our favorite Za Frumi since the first Orc record. That record, Za Shum Ushatar Uglakh, was split evenly between music and the sounds of the Orcs,
battles, arguments, war cries, etc. And we were a more than a little bummed when they shed the 'dialogue' and battle sounds in favor or a pure musical picture. But this first Vampire disc, the music is dark and mysterious, creepy and compelling. A heady mix of renaissance faire minstrel music, horror movie soundtrack, gypsy folk, video game music (not like blips and bleeps but those Silent Hill / House Of The Dead / Resident Evil sort of super suspenseful background soundscapes) and dark ambience. Haunted house organs, operatic female vocals, classical piano, horns and flutes, swirling strings, galloping horses, chirping crickets, ghostly disembodied voices, minor key melodies, and all sorts of military drums, tablas and various percussion coalesce into one seriously mysterious creepy crawl through the
world of the Vampires!

Folkowa web zine by Taclem (original in Polish)

What does electronic passion have in common with folk music?
Sometimes they can have something in common. What Za Frûmi present to us is "Dark Folk", that sometimes is called fantasy music.
The cd sounds like a soundtrack to a dark movie. On the other hand is this a seperate complicated story.
Jakesh and Rianji are two stories from a world that´s on it´s way to disappear. About dark cults and vampires. There are not missing any musical solutions that remind us about folk music. If you move over this cd to a "fantasy reallity", should this maybe be known as the elves dark folk music.
The cd is pretty proud and pompous, but in the same time very beautiful and sad. We have electronical elements such as drums (both electronic and not) that are intertwined in the music. Now and then we here flute and strings. These instruments play melodies that have no origin in any known (ethnic) culture.
At the same time you will be able to distinguish a taste for the oriental, mystical sounds with a flavour of Balcan inspired music and ofcourse from the literature homeland of the vampires. Maybe it´s a homage to those homelands.
Aside from the great artistic value here, the cd work just fine as illustration to fantasy books or even horror books. There are also perfect illustrations in the booklet with great artistic touch.

Stillborn extreme music zine by ~ C.Ð.M.~
(original in Italian)

If the first cd in the Legends of Za Frûmi with Simon Kölle and Simon Heath, pleasantly did hit, this cd does too. I remain hooked by this second work of art that discusses the legends of two vampires (Jakesh and Rianji). This new episode is divided in two parts. The legend of the vampire Jakesh and the legend of the vampire Rianji, told in the typical Za Frûmi style: and that is to say with the music. Magical music... Music of atmosphere, no words, only sounds and feelings. Za Frûmi are capable of architect feelings that are like impalpable structures that materialize themselves alone during the listening. And i always feel diffrent things. The music is darkened with a mysterious halo that create worlds lost and charming.
The music is somewhere between glacial resonance, cold penetrating synths and a large tribalismo that you can here during the whole route (especialy in Rianji!).
There is not more to say. If you already know of Za Frûmi and like them you will contiune to appreciate them still and even more. If you don´t know of Za Frûmi yet you will enchanted by this release!
I would lie if i did not tell you that the music is attractive. It is an Attractive disk!!
It´s a feeling of experience you feel after listening to it. You are being guided into
splendid places and characters. I advice this experience to all of you!

WAER005
A tribute to Uglakh
Full length CD, 20 Tracks, 74 min.
Extraordinary compilation of fantasy and middle age inspired music from all over the world. On this disc you will find act such as The soil bleeds black, Za Frûmi, Sagor & Swing, Autumn tears and many more. See complete tracklist and more info on the bands HERE


14 Euro / 14 USD / 149:- SEK

Reviews of A tribute to Uglakh

"A superb selection of music, a must for fans of ambient, orchestral, fantasy music." - Golden Lake Productions (Scotland/World) - Fraser

"A Tribute to Uglakh is a powerfull compilation for all lovers of dark fantasy ambient, gothic music, neo classic and medieval music. Everybody will admire this cd and you should have expectations because they will be fullfilled and you will get alot of nice surprises. TOP COMPILATION!!!" - Stillborn webmagazine (Italy/World) - Paride "CDM" Polimeno (originaly in Italian)

"You will NOT be disappointed. The tunes are ideal for running any dark fantasy role playing scenario to, or just losing yourself in a world of make believe for a while. Quality!" - Hard Wired (UK) - Keith Elcombe

"The CD as a whole easily get 5/5" - Musical Zone (Japan) - David Purdie

"Despite being an album with a unifying theme, there is enough variation. Soft neo-classical, heavenly voices pieces are alternated with dark soundscapes or uptempo medieval tunes." - Funprox (Holland/World) - Hand D

"a massive comp of like minded bands and individuals, all exploring the dark damp recesses of their souls, trolling through moonlit forests, dripping caves, lunar landscapes and other mysterious and dimly lit lost worlds." - Aquarius records (USA)

"People who love dark, melancholic, atmospheric and medieval music have with “A Tribute To Uglakh” a fine album to listen to" - Gothtronic (Holland) - Beautevil

Stillborn webmagazine Reviewer: Paride "CDM" Polimeno Translated to English from Italian by Roberto Fogelberg

I am not the most competent when it comes to fantasy worlds, dragons, orcs, fairy´s and dwarfs. They always leave me pretty indifferent and maybe i am the only one in the world who not seen The Lord of the rings. It will not be this compilation who bring me closer to fantasy in general. This even though i love all previously releases on Waerloga records and it´s bands that create powerfull atmospheres. A Tribute to Uglakh on Waerloga records and Golem strike one mighty blow joining 19 groups on one of the most beautiful albums we listened to in a long time. It all starts with Simon Kölle and Simon Heath in Za Frûmi and thier classic, ancient sound. The intro of them is very suggestive. After that we hear Cryo aka Anders Dahlgren (a new project without contract) with a epic oriental inspired sound. Balaghan (aka Bernard Kahlen) with "Back at home" show us a new and interesting project with a lovely piece with flute played in the best way possible. Later we are led into a middle age atmosphere with Alvskugga, which is one of all the projects with Simon Heath, the drummer. After that comes Autumn Tears with a song in thier usual stile and the new project of Simon Kölle, Musterion. It´s haunting dark ambient which lead us back to the beautiful and magical atmospheres of Belgian Encryption. Then to, for me, probably the bigest possible surprise, Patrice Deceuninck with "Temps mort". The piece has a rare beauty which reminds me of the best in filmmusic. After that a project with young Overcoat (Aka Scott Porter) with a esoteric touch. Then to Atrium Carceri (again Simon Heath) and it´s nightmares. We all know Simon and he never takes it easy, not even in this work. Rising Shadows is a project without contract even though it existed allready 1996. Their song "Vacui" is scary in the sence that vampires are behind someones back in the darkness. Next piece is "Swift wings" with the Group Vurpa which exists of six swedish girls who play real middle age instruments. They sound very good and i would like to hear something more of them. Normaly they sing in Swedish but this piece is instrumental. After that come the more well known The soil Bleeds Black with a militant "Kerie Eleison". Then a band called Vox Vulgaris with some similarity´s with Vurpa, an ensamble inspired by middle age folk music. I like this project less than Vurpa because they are not beautiful blonde Swedish girls but beer drinking guys. I am just kidding ofcourse. Vox Vulgaris are also very skilled and pleasent to listen to. During a minute or so the famous Unto Ashes play "Exuent Omnia". Next band is Abncoto which is a side project with Simon Kölle and Simon Heath. It´s a project somewhere between dark ritual and darkwave with strings, piano and osbscure soundscapes. Abnocto partook in the film "Tulpa" (doing the score togheter with Raison D´etre and Mogwai!). Later comes Sagor & Swing and i faint of surprise as thier music is 1970s progg! 70s!! Then it´s a new russian group called Volstoj (i.e. the russian composer Dimitrij Volstoj and with the help of Simon Kölle!!). This project is no nature experience but a military one. A very pleasant piece. After that a track with the latest project of the New zeelandic Vagrant´s steps (aka Tom Hall) which is a fusion of three pieces compiled by Simon Kölle. The result is a obscure piece filled with atmosphere and creepy feelings. To finish it all it´s Za Frûmi again with a piece which make ous all go home terrified. What more can i add? A Tribute to Uglakh is a powerfull compilation for all lovers of dark fantasy ambient, gothic music, neo classic and medieval music. Everybody will admire this cd and you should have expectations because they will be fullfilled and you will get alot of nice surprises. TOP COMPILATION!!!

Review of Waerloga compilation vol. 1 - A tribute to Uglakh By: David Purdie - Musical zone Japan issue 63

Let me preface this review by saying that spirituality is not something I take lightly, and those who profess to be spiritual teachers should be held to the highest standard of spiritual integrity. As i have made interviews with all the bands and the creators behind this compilation i can now say that only some of these bands have studied or praticed any spiritual work. But it does not matter here. The music on the cd in itself has great spiritual value! A article about the bands and the ones behind the compilation will be printed in next issue of Musical Zone. Shortly i can say that this is the product of the now well known label Waerloga and a Swedish store called Golem (specialized in roleplay related games and music). The artwork is as always with Waerloga records CDs fresh and looking good. Za Frûmi (as you know by now) made a unique intro for this compilation. Simply called "Compilation intro". Maybe not the best name but the music is truly a masterpiece! Always with Za Frûmi you get surprised. The song is instrumental and the two Simons inserts several vocals and church bells into a dark suggestive and in my mind a bit surrealistic composition. The song starts with a door that open and then closes hard behind you. Why i think of the surrealist movement listening to this cd i don´t know. Most people will probably think of fantasy, middle age and spirituality. Surrealism developed in reaction against the “rationalism” that had led to World War I. The movement was founded in 1924 by André Breton as a means of joining dream and fantasy to everyday reality to form “an absolute reality, a surreality.” Drawing on the theories of Sigmund Freud, he concluded that the unconscious was the wellspring of the imagination. Breton was a poet, but Surrealism's major achievements were in painting. Some artists practiced organic, emblematic, or absolute Surrealism, expressing the unconscious through suggestive yet indefinite biomorphic images (e.g., Jean Arp, Max Ernst, André Masson, Joan Miró). The second song is one made of "Cryo". Anders Dahlgren is the man behind the project and his contribution on this cd is a haunting piece of music. A women is moaning low in the background and the feeling i get listening to the song is dark and beautiful. Maybe the song could be a bit longer. After the dark first two songs "Balaghan" with the song "Back at home" is heard. I get visions of adventurers returning home to a village they left years back. The song would fit a new computer game very well and that´s good as that scene is only getting better. Just listen to the music made by Blizzard Entertainment. The forth song is called "Feelings of cold" and made by Simon Heaths new solo project "Alvskugga" (Elven shadow). The song starts off with a lute and a harp and later on choir pads, flutes, middle age druming and other instruments. The song is well written as always with Heath but it´s hard to get a clear vision or feeling of the song. As track 5 we hear Autumn tears with piano, operatic female singing (no lyrics), some strings and druming. The song is called "Summer requiem" and is one of the best Autumn tears songs i ever heard. Track 6 is Musterion with "Unknown Kadath (remix)". This is a very dark and beautiful song. Ofcourse i think of HP Lovecraft. Musterion is the solo project of Simon Kolle and he mix togheter dark sounds with music in a very good way. I can´t wait to hear the debut cd of Musterion which will be released on HORUS CyclicDaemon (read more about the label in issue 46) later this year. After Musterion Encryption show the world that they evolved as a band. A very beautiful piece of music and female singing! A dark undertone is felt throughout the song. Like Musterion will Encryption have a cd out soon (Encryptions second). According to Waerloga records the new cd will be a step forward for the band. Sounds promising. Patrice Deceuninck with "Temps mort" is track 8. This is music for a film and that´s heard a long way. I think Waerloga records are brave mixing folk music, darkwave, neo-classic and film music on the same cd! Patrice works as a music teacher and it sounds like he´s very well trained in writing pieces. Temps Mort is a short movie directed by Sébastien Milhou in 2002. A man, fallen from the sky, is chased by a strange creature… The music is divided in four parts : “Fallen from the Sky”, “Hobbit on the Run”, “Strange Ring” and “The Black Rider”. Patrice song fits perfectly on this compilation. Overcoat with "Alexandria" is track 9. The song is clearly inspired by Alexandria and it sounds arabic. I think of bazaars and intriguing people. After Overcoat we hear a strong and dark piece by Atrium Carceri called "Emperors Chamber". This song appeals to people into industrial darkwave. The song is very scary and i like it very much. As i listened to the first 10 songs my impression about the compilation is that it´s very well compiled and that i got some good surprises. That Kolle and Heath made dark and good songs was ofcourse no surprise but the band Cryo was. I would like to hear more of Cryo. I think so much of this compilation is unique that i don´t know where to start talk about it. I save it for my article in next issue. Song 11 has it´s similarity with Cryo but more slow and majestic. I like the song very much. Then again the compilation surprised me. This time with a song made by Swedish folk music group, Vurpa. The band concist of 6 women all classically trained musicians of great skill. They are: Elisabeth Lutteman on Vocals, Viola and Gothic Harp. Linda Anger on Vocals, Key-Fiddle. Lisa Kaisajuntti on Vocals, Sallow Flute and (not in Swift Wings) Accordion. Anna Larsson on Vocals, Fiddle and Bodhrán. Jennie Lundgren - Vocals, Flute, Jew's Harp and Djembe. Åsa Norrlid - Vocals, Fiddle, Darbuka and Djembe. The song feels very nordic and middle age. Violin, drums, flute and other instruments create a wonderful melody. Some might call it filled with joy but i feel pain especialy in the vocal. I can see as she dance ecstatic and how she search for spirituality. The song is called Swift Wings. Song 13 is The Soil Bleeds Black with "Kyrie Eleison". The Middle Ages (500 – 1500) is the greatest source of inspiration for TSBB. This period in history the band feel is very rich and covers the entire spectrum of the human condition. So many interesting events took place in the medieval times like the Crusades, the Protestant Reformation, the black plague, the dissolution of Paganism and the social mores where certainly noteworthy (eg. the concept of chivalry, et al.) The band fit perfect on this cd! Good work. After heard TSBB i understood that this is the part on the cd dedicated to folk/neo-folk groups playing middle age inspired music. Vox Vulgaris bring us a very good piece of middle age music played only with live instruements. I had to listen to the song 3 times because some very interesting instruments are played. I can hear a instrument in the vox Vulagaris song that reminds me of the Biwa! The short-necked lute, used from the 7th century in gagaku, to accompany early puppet plays and also by blind monk entertainers. The main character in The Story of Earless Hoichi was as you know one of these biwa hoshi (lute priests). Probably Vox Vulgaris don´t use the biwa but it´s funny how some traditional instruments have common ground. Vox Vulgaris do something new with old music without adding keyboards or modern drums. The band is Swedish so they could be touring partners with Vurpa. Unto Ashes with "Exeunt Omnia" play a short but interesting song also with live instruments. This American act have made some wonderful pieces of music. This one is very short but should be mentioned anyway because it´s strange feel. The song reminds me of Popul Vuh. Popul Vuh are named after the Mayan Book of the Dead - one of the most mysterious and interesting of all the German cosmic rock bands. Most of all thier music for Herzog´s film. Abnocto with "Prophecy" has a dark and mystical feel to it. Nordic male choir to the sound of rain and contra bass. Later on in the song: piano, organ, tambourin and more. The Tambourine are played by being struck, shaken, and scraped. The percussion section provides a variety of textures and tone colors. Abnocto is a Waerloga act with Simon Heath and Simon Kolle as the leaders. The music is timeless really but the feeling is the late middle ages. The debute CD of Abnocto i made a preview review of last year. The full leanght cd will be called "Simon Magus". Simon Magus was a mage who fought Simon Petrus! When i read about Simon Magus i understood the background to the choir´s and the music made by Abnocto. I understood it was about demons, devils, satanic orders, whiches and great halls of churches and temples. This is Gothic music folks! Now i thought the compilation could not surprise me anymore. I was ofcourse wrong. This is a Avant garde CD compilation. Sagor & Swing play a song after Anbnocto with great energy. Hammond organ, flute and drums are the instruments! The band was Passed the Torch by Bo Hansson and they do it wonderful. I have listened to other songs of Sagor & Swing now and they have something great going on! Nostalgic fantasy music with a unique flavor. After the great surprise from Sweden a Russian/Swedish duo called Volstoj mix sounds of a Siege (also the name of the song), fires, horses etc with choirs and military drums. The Choir are from Russia. Sadly the cd is about to reach it´s end here. The 19th song of this wonderful compilation is a solo project of Tom Hall of New Zealand. The project goes under the name Vagrant´s Steps. The song is devided into three parts. The song feels minimalistic but strike me pretty hard because of good melodies. The best part of the three is clearly the third one. The last song is really a preview of the "return of orcs"! Za Frûmi close the door with a new song which in one way or the other will be on their coming third chapter in the "Saga". Orcs and other creatures speak as the song plays. Someone is being tortured and the song ends with something that sounds like a battle. I love this song. I can´t wait for the third chapter. Za Frûmi, Cryo, Encryption, Musterion, Patrice Deceuninck, Atrium Carceri, Vurpa, TSBB, Vox Vulgaris, Unto Ashes and Abnocto all get 5/5 That is 12 out of 20 tracks! Do i need to say that this compilation is the best in this scene so far!? The other 8 tracks all get 4/5. The CD as a whole easily get 5/5 David Purdie

Gothtronic Review by: Beautevil

This has become a succeeded sampler. People who love dark, melancholic, atmospheric and medieval music have with “A Tribute To Uglakh” a fine album to listen to. The beginning is mostly atmospherically medieval oriented music with songs from Za Frûmi, Cryo, Balaghus, Musterion and Alvskugga, but has also moments that remind of an act like Dead Can Dance. Listen for instance to songs of Autumn Tears, the Belgian Encryption (with the atmospheric ‘Nosferamor') and the bombastic, classic like ‘Temps Mort' of Patrice Deceuninck. The last named song is taken from a short movie and contains different moods. It is one of the highlights of this album. Atrium Carceri creates sounds that would fit perfectly in any Cold Meat sampler, while the fairy like tunes of Rising Shadow sound more classic moody. Vurpa, The Soil Bleeds Black (with the of GOR reminding version of ‘Kyrle Eleison') and Vox Vulgaria return to the essence of the medieval sound. The short song of Unto Ashes (‘Excount Omnia') has some world music influences, while tracks from Abnocto, Volstoj. Vagrants Steps and (again) Za Frûmi bring us back into the dark spheres of the first tracks of this album. The only light-headed song between this is from Sagor & Swing that almost sounds as a spacey 70s song with that typical organ sound. An extremely dark, but tasteful sampler. Grade: 8.5

Aquarius Records

From the Swedish Waerloga label, who you should remember as the folks responsible for the Orc-ish and vampiric dark ambient rituals of the mysterious Za Frumi, comes a massive comp of like minded bands and individuals, all exploring the dark damp recesses of their souls, trolling through moonlit forests, dripping caves, lunar landscapes and other mysterious and dimly lit lost worlds. Pretty exciting comp considering we haven't heard of about 90 percent of these bands and most of this stuff is pretty great. Two tracks from Za Frumi exploring similar territory as on their records proper, a a little dark ambient moodiness from The Soil Bleeds Black, and one track from AQ faves Sagor & Swing, and that's about it for bands we know. But fear not, the rest of the comp travels a similar musical path, dark rumbles, dreamy atmospherics, festive renn-faire frippery, downright scary doomscapes and all creepy and creaking stops in between. By the way we think Uglakh is the name of an orc, not a band...

Hard wired - Alternative music mayhem (England) Reviewer: Keith Elcombe Rating 8/10

It's been a while since we've had anything through from the Waerloga label, so it was good to get this new compilation from them. On it we are given 20 tracks from bands on the Waerloga label – this includes our favourites, Za Frumi, who have two tracks on here. The other bands we had not heard of, so it was interesting to hear some new material from a label we have come to respect over the last year or so. If you've not come across any music from this label before, then you will fall into one of two camps – you'll either love it or hate it. The music can best be described as neo-classical. Modern instruments are merged with a high degree of quality to sounds and songs of the middle and dark ages. Couple this to the fantasy/mythic element, and the stage is set for a fantastic musical voyage that does inspire the imagination. This fusion works so well you actually have to think about it to recognise what is going on with each track. The music just seems so natural. The description above can be applied to 90% of all the bands featured on this compilation, save for Sagor & Swing with ‘Till minne av Lilly Lindstrom', which is most definitely inspired by 1960's instrumentals. This is the one exception to an album of finely inspired medieval music. Choral chanting, both male and female can be found on here, subtly intertwined with piano, drumming and orchestral backing. Some of the music has dark and sinister overtones – take ‘Lithiel' by Cryo – a dark and foreboding track conjuring up images of a dark storm approaching, while ‘Back at home' by Balaghan is a more uplifting classical piece, full of hope. ‘Feelings of cold by Alvskugga is definitely an eastern European inspired folk piece – no vocals (except the occasional choral piece), just traditional wind instruments, percussion and strings. This is a great track. ‘Nosferamor' by Encryption sounds more like something that Enya would put out than anyone else. The vocals here definitely convey a mystical element. ‘Alexandria' by Overcoat definitely conjures up images of North African folk music, given the enthnic origins of the instruments. The top track for me on the album has to be the wholly medieval sounding track, ‘Kyrie Eleison', by The Soil Bleeds Black. I'm sure a version of this track appeared in the 80's version of Excalibur, but I could be wrong. Its just that this track seems to fit that sort of scenario perfectly. And so without commenting on any other individual tracks, because they all follow the same formula with the same qualified degree of success, I'll draw this review to a close. If the music I've described is your thing, then go and get this album. You will NOT be disappointed. The tunes are ideal for running any dark fantasy role playing scenario to, or just losing yourself in a world of make believe for a while. Quality!

Funprox Reviewer: Hans D

Waarloga Records from Sweden has find its own niche releasing music with a fantasy theme/atmosphere. The music is usually somewhere between neoclassical, folk/medieval and dark soundscapes. That resulted in some nice releases already, most notably the excellent albums by Za Frûmi. Now the label has released its first compilation with no less than 20 tracks, in collaboration with Golem.se, a webshop selling roleplaying games. Some Waerloga acts are present, like Encryption and the aforementioned Za Frûmi. Best known names for me are Autumn Tears, Unto Ashes, the Soil Bleeds Black and Atrium Carceri. This last act, known for its release on Cold Meat, is a project of Simon Heath, who is also involved in various other projects on this sampler, like Za Frûmi, Volstoj (Waerloga note: Simon Heath , Abnocto and Alvskugga. His Za Frûmi partner Simon Kölle is at his turn active in Musterion and Abnocto. Therefore "A tribute to Uglakh" is a bit of an incestuous affair between the two Simons, which is not to say that the cd is not interesting. On the contrary, the majority of the tracks appeal to me and convey the right atmosphere. Despite being an album with a unifying theme, there is enough variation. Soft neo-classical, heavenly voices pieces are alternated with dark soundscapes or uptempo medieval tunes. Some of the highlights for me: the ritual medieval track by Alvskugga, the heavenly hymn by Autumn Tears, the oriental tune by OverCoat and the very dark soundscape by Atrium Carceri. Furthermore the solemn 'Kyrie Eleison' by the Soil Bleeds Black, the festive medieval bagpipe song by Vox Vulgaris and the melancholic waltz by Sagor & Swing. In other words, a more than decent compilation which should not fail at any fantasy event.

Golden Lake Productions (Scotland) Reviewer: Fraser

This is an extraordinary compilation of fantasy and middle age inspired music from all over the world. On this disc you will find the following acts; Za Frumi x 2, Cryo, Balaghan, Alvskugga, Autumn Tears, Musterion, Encryption, Patrice Deceuninck, OverCoat, Atrium Carceri, Rising Shadows, Vurpa, The Soil Bleeds Black, Vox Vulgaris, Unto Ashes, Abnocto, Sagor & Swing, Volstoj and Vagrants Steps. A superb selection of music, a must for fans of ambient, orchestral, fantasy music.

WAER007
Encryption - Nosferamor
Full length CD, 12 Tracks.
“Nosferamor” unveils the Vampyric shroud of darkness, mysticism, love and pain. Behold the encounter of a mortal man and an undead beauty, folding into a heartbreaking love story. Feel the shivers of a passion of such depth, that the burden of immortality is but a small sacrifice.

Reviews of Nosferamor

" Nosferamor is (again) a succeeded attempt to combine melancholic church music with female voices and film-like passages. Master brain Lacrimas can be satisfied again with a nice and atmospheric album! 8/10" - Gothtronic -
Beautevil

"Nosferamor does remain a beautiful album with a splendid atmosphere that will appeal to gothic and darkwave fans of the above bands and even to some metalheads. In fact, this music will suit to anybody who appreciates atmospheric, mystical music that awakens the imagination. An album to listen to as one transcendental trip or perhaps as a soundtrack of a good fantasy
novel! " - Vampire magazine - Thijs van der Haar

"...Lady Clarisse. Her voice, the lead instrument of the band, merges with
the textures of those the musicians craft as it moves in and out of lyrics
for the conveyance of emotions!
Sometimes haunting and sometimes beautiful." - Chain D.L.K.

"The sounds sometimes will make you want to shed a tear, of hide away.
Overall, it’s a very nice cd to listen to with the lights out a few candles
burning and you will not just hear the music but feel it, too. And I reckon
if your not the hasty type, its would be a nice love-making cd, too! " -
Frozen leaves

"Much better than Secrecy. In the same class as Arcana" - Sanjo Nakazo -
Radio Tas3

Gothtronic
by Beautevil
The production on the sequel of “Secrecy” sounds much more mature. In the sphere of the darkest moments of Arcana or Dark Sanctuary Encryption creates also thematically a sequel on their predecessor. “Nosferamor” may have the inspiration of ‘Vampyrism’, but the first part is still inspired by ‘End Of The Ordo Libidis’. This time the band has listened to the prayers of Silverwar (during her review of “Encryption”) and written down the lyrics and the (short) story of both parts in the tasteful booklet. There are also some changes in the Belgian band, because Lady Satine (backing and second line voices) is named as a new band member and Roger Keppens is the voice on the great song ‘Parit Dolum’. Lady Clarisse (the female lead vocals) sounds much better as well as on their previous album. Her high voice sounds much more in balance (although it’s sometimes still on the edge of right and wrong, like on ‘The Mind And I’ and ‘The Serpent Flame’). This is however critic from the biggest critic of all, because “Nosferamor” is (again) a succeeded attempt to combine melancholic church music with female voices and film-like passages. Master brain Lacrimas can be satisfied again with a nice
and atmospheric album!
8/10

Vampire magazine
written by Thijs van der Haar
Encryption is a gothic/darkwave act from Belgium, consisting of composer and synthesizer player Lacrimas and female vocalists Lady Clarisse (lead vocals) and Lady Satine (backing vocals). In 2003 Waerloga Records - an interesting Swedish label focusing on dark fantasy music - released their debut album Secrecy (which unfortunately isn't part of my cd-collection yet) which is the first episode of a trilogy about witchcraft, necromancy, civil fear of occultism and the inquisition. Or in other words: the dark side of the Middle Ages. On this second opus, Nosferamor, the above concept continues.
The album tells the story of Count Corbin, who established the Ordo Libidis: a secret society occupied with necromancy. The inquisition kills all members of the Ordo Libidis, except for Corbin. He manages to escape and travels to Transsylvania, where a vampire order shelters him. There he falls in love with female vampire Zorana, who turns Corbin into a vampire and teaches him the art of seduction and death...

Quite a story! The album title Nosferamor is a contraction of 'Nosferatu'
and 'amor', as vampirism and love are the central themes of this opus. The record can be regarded as the soundtrack of the above tale. Anyway, what does the album offer musically? First of all "Dominum Maleficarum": a dark, Celtic sounding intro with ominous percussion, which creates the right atmosphere. Then the melancholic, fragile yet warm female voice of Lady Clarisse blends in, supported by backing vocals of Lady Satine. The second"The mind and I" and the third "The serpent flame" are both beautiful, calm songs in the same style, consisting of double-voiced female vocals and symphonic synthesizer accompaniment. In "Parit Dolum" a male choir is audible in an again ominous atmosphere. "The witches' lament" is a melancholic song, but with a splendid, heavenly atmosphere. Great! Also the subsequent instrumental intermezzo "Sanctus" is fascinating, featuring - if I'm not mistaken - samples of Gregorian chants, which are mixed with synthesizers in a great way. "Transsylvania 1768" is a sinister intro that marks the second part of this opus: "Vampyrism". The eighth track"Nosferamor" and ninth track "Dansul Vampirilor" continue in the atmosphere of the first songs. "Clarity" is a melancholic song with a beautiful tender atmosphere. Another highlight! In "Cold Skin" Lacrimas provides some low male vocals and "Infernarium" is a dim outro and the end of the second episode of this trilogy.

The above description of Nosferamor is quite praising, but I have some
critical notes concerning the vocals. The backing vocals of Lady Satine turn out great in for instance "The witches' lament", but they sound weaker at some other moments and unfortunately her voice is terribly out of tune in the song "Nosferamor". And lead vocalist Lady Clarisse has quite a beautiful voice, but doesn't sound stable all the time either. I don't intend to assault all members of this combo, but Lacrimas' male vocals in "Cold skin" don't convince me at all. Musically he definitely compensates this, though, as the album as a whole is a more than fine symphonic darkwave release.
However, his arrangements are relatively simple and both musically and
vocally Encryption is just slightly inferior to the established darkwave
acts as Dargaard or Die Verbannten Kinder Evas.
Musically this album reminds me of Come heavy sleep of Die Verbannten Kinder Evas and the impressive atmosphere and intermezzi remind me of Avrigus' fascinating opus The secret kingdom. Encryption created an accessible symphonic darkwave album, sounding less gloomy or depressive than the recent Elend or last Dark Sanctuary albums. Despite the above comments, Nosferamor does remain a beautiful album with a splendid atmosphere that will appeal to gothic and darkwave fans of the above bands and even to some metalheads. In fact, this music will suit to anybody who appreciates atmospheric, mystical music that awakens the imagination. An album to listen to as one transcendental trip or perhaps as a soundtrack of a good fantasy novel!

Chain D.L.K.
Encryptions second album is called “Nosferamor” and it unveils the Vampire shroud of darkness, mysticism, love and pain. Behold the encounter of a mortal man and an undead beauty, folding into a heartbreaking love story.
Fans that enjoy Autumn Tears and Dark sanctuary would most certainly like Encryptions “Nosferamor”.
This CD is way better than their debut and that goes for everything on it.
The voices, the melodies, the atmosphere, the FX and the compositions.

I think Lacrimas should take in some more musicians to spice up the songs as they sometimes feel a little to much synthetic.

Encryption has outdone themselves here with Nosferamor and most of all Lady Clarisse. Her voice, the lead instrument of the band, merges with the textures of those the musicians craft as it moves in and out of lyrics for the conveyance of emotions!
Sometimes haunting and sometimes beautiful.
4/5

Frozen Leaves
Written by Jolijn Calle
A dark gothic band, they were formed by the keyboard player LacrimaS, who also played in Sereneless. Since 2000 they have played dark music, based on historical facts and happenings during the 16th – 18th century. First it started out as instrumental music. Later on singers joined in, and now they are a full band, signed by Waerloga Records. This is their 2nd CD coming out, and the Qntal like band takes us back again into the dark moments of history.

Nosferamor is split up in 2 pieces. The first part is mostly inspired by the
legend of Ordo Libidis. The second part of the cd is called Vampirism, when reading the lyrics in the booklet; it’s mostly about being a vampire, Anne Rice style. The CD starts with an instrumental piece. It’s all really music to suit down wit, light a few candles and feel your being fading away. The first piece gives sets the mood quite well. The second song sets in but it doesn’t really impress me, the third song does though. Even though the singing isn’t that good, sometimes Lady Clarisse is a bit off. But the feeling of darkness, and ritual sounds, make me want to be a part of some secret society. It’s really floating into your ears; this song contains some slow drums. All with all, you can probably meditate to it quite well. Encryption also has used some Latin lyrics as well. ‘Parit Dolum’ is done completely in Latin. Its not a very happy song, none of them are, but in the background you can here the chains rattle in the dungeon and the women scream for help. It can make u feel quite uneasy even.
The next song ‘A Witches Lament’ is so slow you can use it so fall asleep to, the lyrics are so gothic it makes me laugh. You need to be in the mood for this.
The first part closes with another instrumental song, Sanctus. Its starts
with the singing like monks do in church, and the high pitched tones make it a scary song. You know the movie Jaws? They try to do the same, but in a more or less gothic-in-a-dungeon kind of setting. With that the first part ends. On to Vampyrism.

The instrumental intro ‘Transsylvania 1768’, has a few keys in the middle of the song that are off, very off, it surprised me. Its supposed to sound old and ancient, but even then they knew that false music really isn’t nice to hear. Besides that there isn’t really something special to this song.
The second song is surprisingly well done compared to that I just heard, the singing is good, the keys are done well, there is a bit more variety in the song, some drums, some higher notes, and all is guided by the slow low keys that set the undertone for every song.
‘Dansul Vampirilor’ starts quite slow but gets more of a tempo in it later
on. The signing is also more varying. Its all still the same low voices of
Lady Clarissa and the backing vocals of Lady Satine. But they vary more,
sometimes it sounds sad, then it sounds relieved, and sometimes they sound comforting. It’s about making your child part of the vampires, almost sounds like fun to be one if you hear this. The song after that, ‘Clarity’ looks a lot like the previous one. It’s a bit darker. If possible. I must say that a lot on this cd reminds me of the ‘Gods of the Sun’ Album, from My Dying Bride. It's the same atmosphere. Only without the guitars and with female vocals. By this time the album starts to bore me a bit, I like a bit more groove in my music. The songs with some drum and tempo in it still aren’t danceable, but quite ok to listen. The really slow parts, with just some keys and some vocals with all stretched out lines are getting boring. Like they knew what I mean ‘Cold Skin’ created with its more ritual sounding tempo and male low vocals more soothing tones. Then the ladies come in again, but the sensual and erotic tone to the song it set. I like it; it’s a nice change to some other parts of the album. It stops really abruptly at 4 minutes. To bad, I quite like that one.
Then its time for the song that closes ‘Vampyrism’. Another instrumental
part, ‘Infernarium’ Has some low male vocals in the background but mainly some weird starchy noises on the cd that, listening to it in a suitable environment, would give me the creeps. The sounds die out after a few minutes, and that happens to slowly you don’t even notice the music has stopped until after a few minutes.

To conclude, I listened to some of the songs a few times to get some feeling with the music. I quite liked it, Encryption has set a dark fantasy like gothic atmosphere. The sounds sometimes will make you want to shed a tear, of hide away. Overall, it’s a very nice cd to listen to with the lights out a few candles burning and you will not just hear the music but feel it, too. And I reckon if your not the hasty type, its would be a nice love-making cd, too!

Radio Tas3
By/spoken Sanjo Nakazo, translated to english by the author/radio dj.
Much better than Secrecy. In the same class as Arcana. Sometimes brilliant and sometimes OK. Overall a gothic fantasy album with a great story.

With Nosferamor Encryption creat almost a masterpiece. Reaching back further and further until eventually hitting vampirism.
A surprising success, given the very different sounding nature of this
album. (After this an interview with Encryption was aired)

WAER008
Za Frûmi - Shrak ishi za migul - chapter 3
Za Frûmi - Shrak ishi za migul - chapter 3
Full length CD, 12 Tracks. The third chapter in the "Za Frûmi saga". This is dark fantasy (Dark ambient) music with dialog in orcish and the language of the dark elves.
The booklet is 20 pages big and contains the manuscript (translation to English) and story. More than 20 actors helped out creating this unique dark fantasy experience. This CD is a step back to Za shum ushatar Uglakh but also a great step forward in production. All that love dark fantasy, orcs, dark elves and atmosphere should own this highly recomended CD. In the begining of the booklet one can easily read up on what happened in chapter 1 and 2.


15 Euro / 18 USD / 149:- SEK

Reviews of Shrak ishi za Migul

"This album I thought was made for Tolkien nerds but I was so wrong thinking that.
The mix, the master and the SOUNDS are so incredible I find no other word than magnificent!"..."5 out of 5 stars." - Chain D.L.K - Ivan Racheck

"All you readers need to know about this CD is that the music and story is done by masters and that this is a masterpiece!"..."I thought about giving this CD 6/5 but I am not allowed to do it so 5/5 it is!" - David Purdie - Musical zone Japan and Radio Rivendell

"The history is perfect and aided by sounds of bonfires, swords nailing in the ground and hitting against others, musas and, mainly, wars; battles and more battles treated about a spectacular form, taking care of and measuring at any moment the used intensity of the sounds and effects to obtain the suitable result, in such a way that the listener feels that she is in the middle of the scene." - Fernando O. Paino - Mentenebre

"It had been so long since we had visited Uglach's world, we had almost forgotten how bracing it was, what a dangerous and vicarious thrill it was to ride alongside the Orcs in battle, to grieve the dead, to drink and sup, and to luxuriate in the epic and majestic sounds of the mighty Za Frumi!!" - Aquarius Records

"Love this album! Or Hate it! The music Za Frûmi create stays with you -- it is dark, fun, and wonderful! A must for all that love dark fantasy! Rate: 19/20" - Spirit of metal - Irma S. Mandel

" The sound of the orcs intertwined with ageless song proves an original combination. I'm definitely proud to play the band's creations on my station!" - DJ Raven - KBGA College Radio Missoula, MT, USA

" Over 20 actors helped Simon Heath (Atriurm Carceri) and Simon Kölle (Musterion) complete this masterpiece. A fluteplayer, singers and others were brought in to make the third chapter a unique experience. And unique it is! There is NOTHING like this out there, period." - Malignant Records

"song number seven you can really jump filled with joy, because ‘Immra’ (with a woman singing) is directly the best song that Za Frûmi ever has released (and that says a lot). Melancholia and dark, mystical forces in one!" - Gothtronic

"The duo Simon Kölle and Simon Heath are the ones behind Za Frûmi. They are sound artists with class. The
atmospherically sounds are filmatic and summon up inner pictures of what happens.
The fingertip feeling for creating illusions is total. In addition to that they use music in a way that’s not long behind the most skillful film makers." - Joyzine - Mikael Mjörnberg

"These CD's are indeed challenging providing a rewarding escape especially if listened to in their entirety but they should not be approached as Tolkien proper (the events do not take place in Middle-earth or are even assumed to).They are competent recordings in that one is enveloped by a unique world of theatre in which the orc takes centre stage and their martial society which has held fascination for many readers both within and without Tolkien's works. " - UK Tolkien Society´s Journal Amon Hen - Michael Cunningham

Full Reviews:

Chain D.L.K - Ivan Racheck

5 out of 5 stars.

This album is very impressive!

Simon Kölle (Musterion, Abnocto) and Simon Heath (Atrium Carceri, Abnocto) are the masterminds behind Za Frûmi.
This is Za Frûmi´s fifth release on Waerloga Records and the third in the “Za Frûmi saga”. The band has two brilliant branches. One consisting of atmospheric, dark ambient, fantasy inspired instrumental music called “Za Frûmi Legends”
And the other is the “Za Frûmi saga” which deals with orcs. It’s music with dialogue in black speech but on “Shrak ishi Za migul” also the language of dark elves.

In the 20 pages big booklet of “Shrak ishi Za migul” (Gathering in the mist) one can read up on the story and everything said on the CD is translated to English in there.

It’s not only dialogue but also extremely good atmospheric fantasy music too!
The music sounds like some of the best soundtrack composers out there. Always with their own sound and stile. I am stunned actually by this album. Normally I hate dialogue and I d