Band: Ahasverus

Album: Evocation

Album Year: 2006

Label: Ahasverus Records

Genre(s): Dark Ambient

Band Website: http://www.ahasverus.se

Rating: 8.5/10

Track list:

1. Hewretot

2. Herachitot

3. Inagimac

4. Tahoene

5. Shesphergisti

6. Gamhanned

7. Helofot

It's like catching the tail end of an echo made in the not too distant past. I found myself examining artifacts preserved through sound created by the hand of the masterful Henrik Summanen with his Ahasverus project. After being introduced to “The Destiny of Fabian Kazmierski” I had to look deeper into this artist’s catalog, which ultimately brought me to “Evocation.” I am very glad to have arrived here.

“Evocation” is a piece of work that proves to be intrinsically deep in its homage to archeology and its effects on culture and humanity. Is it the sound of ancient relics pining to be left alone? Or is it the soundtrack to a greedy materialist’s excavation? The answer lies in the space between the sounds…

It is quite apparent right off the bat that there is something special about this release. The CDr and accompanying artwork are mummified in a case of cloth, which does an excellent job of setting the stage for the auditory story to come. Presented as if it were a treasure trove from some long lost civilization, the packaging of this release is nostalgic and modern. It is the ultimate paradox and it works.

The sound-work in this album is as adventurous as I have come to expect of Ahasverus, but the trip is a lot darker this time around… It’s almost completely desaturated. “Evocation” takes us into the sparse corners of the past with expansive pads, fluttering field projections, and some light digital experimentation added in for good measure. Once again I am hypnotized by the subtle use of chord progressions and melodies, which provide as a solid backbone to some very interesting soundscapes.

There is a particular flow to this piece that remains constant. This may or may not be viewed as a downfall, depending on your perspective. The tides of atmosphere continue to wax and wane throughout the entire album without ever becoming too obtrusive or offensive. We’re talking about classic ambient darkness here. I also noted some minor clipping/distortion issues toward the last third of the album; nothing too detrimental but noticeable enough in headphones. However, the majority of the album is produced with an exceptionally clean hand and most listeners are likely not even to notice the minor imperfections.

All in all, Ahasverus presents us with a very worthy addition in the annals of dark ambient history with a release that has a lot to say. “Evocation” manages to capture and preserve a piece of time, even our own personal history, within its very construct. This is an album that should not be overlooked by any ambient enthusiast. There’s something hiding in the walls and we must listen to find it.

-Jason

January 2007