Checklined: Qntal - 'Translucida'

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02 Apr, 2008

Checklined: Qntal - 'Translucida' 5 editors at Side-Line briefly gave their view on the newest album of Qntal: "Translucida", out on E-Wave Records/Drakkar Entertainment Gmbh. Here's what our jury had to say:

If the first compositions that followed the departure of Ernst Horn seemed to me very flat or sometimes even kitsch, it is not really the case of this sixth opus of this cult group where we find the perfect representation between electronic, acoustic sounds and an angelic voice that will make cry. The harmony and the sobriety are back to the country of Qntal.
(CX:8)CX.
“Qntal VI” brings us a new trip through reverie and floating, medieval music styles. “Translucida” sounds like accentuating electronic arrangements without losing the typical medieval trademark of the band. The astonishing vocal performance of Syrah again awake fascination and simply adoration. After a rather quiet debut, this 6th opus evolves towards a real climax with some brilliant songs in the last part. One of the single bands I know keeping all expectations high on every new release!
(DP:8/9)DP.
Being masters in producing dreamy, medieval landscapes, Qntal is back with its sixth release. Again I was astonished by the exceptional voice of this classically trained vocalist exploring the most diverse sonic spaces. Next to the quiet, calmer moments, this release includes a number of more up tempo songs. Unfortunately this album would have been perfect without these less inspiring escapades.
(NOA:8)NOA.
Qntal has not changed a lot to its ingredients, but it nevertheless stays effective, A track like "Glacies" will easily become yet another hit for the band, or a least it should. There is just one question that pops in my head: what evolution can we expect from Qntal because everything does sound a lot alike and no album seems to progress.
(BVI:7/8)BVI.
This new album from Qntal sounds a bit like their previous releases. There’s nothing really new except that they refine their style more and more. We miss the surprise effect but such album keep them on the top in this style. Several songs are rather catchy and bring a good balance between medieval instruments and electronic sounds capes, without forgetting the rather exceptional voice of their female singer. A rather secure release if you do not dare trying other things.
(CF:7/8)CF.