In this cool digipack, came in a very pleasant opus of somber Russian music. Evoke Thy Lords was formed back in 2002. Their name, as well as lyrics, was inspired by the work of H.P.Lovecraft. Six musicians are forming the band; two of them are women, both called Irina. One is taking care of the vocals, while the other plays flute. The act is completed by a male vocalist/keyboard player and the usual guitar/bass& drum metallic trio.
The dual vocals being offered by Evoke Thy Lords are as varied as their music. Irina's voice is operatic & angelic, whereas Alexey's pipes are much deeper and of a growling style. Both reflect the dual nature of their work: greatly melodious on one hand, dark and crunchy on the other. Escape to the Dreamland is overall a Doom Metal release. Various influences are also recognizable: Gothic, Death, Progressive and a bit of Folk Metal on the side. This last aspect is felt by the omnipresent flute parts, but also with the frequent acoustic guitar passages. What I found particularly enjoyable was to hear those arpeggios being played on that last instrument; something I must confess having a weak spot for.
Escape to the Dreamland goes down nicely and easily since the songs are well written, and the dual personality of their art is well balanced. As for my favorite compositions, I can mention a few: "Longing From Beyond", "Daemonolatry" and "The Dreamlands".
Track Listing
1 - ~~~
2 - Towards Yuggoth
3 - Coming from Beyond
4 - ~~~
5 - The Awakening of the Sleeping One
6 - ~~~
7 - Daemonolatry
8 - The Prophecy: Rising Chaos
9 - Seared by Eerie Might
10 - ~~~
11 - The Dreamlands