Hexperos – The Garden Of The Hesperides
Equilibrium Music – EQM019 – 28 September 2007
by John Norby
This new project by
Gothica’s sublime Alessandra Santovito is an ambient, soundtrack-like wonder that takes us on a enchanting journey summoning dreams of medieval times, of Celtic times, of mythical legends… and of being at midnight mass at Easter or Christmas! Hope that didn’t ruin the vibe. In all seriousness though, there
are sections on here that dredge up memories of the musical segues offered in the seemingly 20-hour long festive sermons we had to endure as fidgety children wondering when we’d be able to escape. The good thing about this album, though, is that you’re not actually anywhere near a chapel when said passages come into play.
While the majority of
The Garden Of The Hesperides is a mesmerizing, ethereal affair, it does have its dark moments, most notably on
’The Call Of The Ibis’ and ‘
’Ritual’, of which the latter could be the perfect soundtrack to any Hollywood movie depicting some sort of, well, ritual. This neo-classical masterpiece is lovingly assembled by those involved, and while every instrument is integral to the whole, the inclusion of Francesa Romana di Nicola’s wonderful harp passages is so uplifting and invigorating that it must be recognized as some of the album’s finest moments.
The Garden Of The Hesperides is definitely an album that one must be in the correct frame of mind to listen to – or at least to make it through the entire recording in one sitting. Best experienced by candlelight – even better if you can find yourself a cathedral for a night and crank it up in there.
Official Hexperos Website
Official Hexperos Myspace
Official Equilibrium Music Website
