Title: The Tale of Axe & Torch
Artist: RævJäger
Rating: 4.0 / 5
Genre: Fantasy / Soundtrack
Year: 2015
Country: Russia
Label: Self-released
RævJäger is a fantasy project from Russia that is lost somewhere between the worlds of Dungeon Synth and video game soundtracks. In the same way that Erang has combined multiple music genres to create his own unique world, RævJäger has accomplished the same impressive feat. The music on The Tale of Axe & Torch does not carry the same dark, lonely, or melancholic atmospheres found in many Dungeon Synth projects. Instead, his music offers a much more adventurous feeling; as if you are leaving your home for a long and epic journey into far and unknown corridors of new worlds.
RævJäger’s music is similar to the last few albums from Lord Lovidicus because of the adventurous atmosphere, but this comparison is only for reference and doesn’t imply a lack of originality. RævJäger has managed to create a very unique style, excelling especially at very well-thought out and faster lead melodies. Using harp, key, or woodwind instruments, the melodies develop at a rapid pace, much like the work of the baroque composer Vivaldi. While a project like Murgrind shares more with composers such as Wagner and Beethoven, RævJäger follows more in the footsteps of Vivaldi or Bach. The pace rarely slows down and the lead melodies have an almost virtuoso-like quality in their composition and execution. This is probably RævJäger’s strongest aspect and demonstrates his competency as a musician.
The Tale of Axe & Torch also carries a distinctly Russian feeling for those who appreciate the Dungeon Lore Foundation and other associated projects. The song “Be a Trickster!” reminds me quite a bit of the amazing Russian act Darkstroll, with its upbeat melody and folkish percussive tempo. There is also a highly impressive cover of “Walking through the dungeon of Ghorgul” by Splendorius, which is not just a simple recreation of the song, but adds instruments more appropriate for RævJäger. By doing so he has effectively put his own unique touch on this great Dungeon Synth song.
For those who would like to leave the dark castles and grim pathways of the dungeon and venture forth into the mystical forest and sunlit mountains, The Tale of Axe & Torch is just what you are looking for.
