Genre/Influences: Ritual, Dark-Ambient.

Format: Digital, CD, Vinyl.

Background/Info: Set up in 2017, Grande Loge is a French project, which by the end of 2020 released its official debut album on Cyclic Law. The album title is a clear indication to get an idea what this work is all about.

Content: From the very first notes you can hear the main sources of inspiration this project is dealing with. The atmosphere, the use of traditional instruments like violin, buzuki, nafar, shaman drums and tanpura plus the production of the vocals are reflecting an imaginary sacred rite. This is Ritual music composed with authentic instruments while the chants are featuring mantras. It all together creates an elevating sensation accentuated by little sonic details. The tracks have been progressively built up and more than once are reaching a true sonic climax.

+ + + : This is the kind of production I particularly like for the way poignant atmospheres have been created by the use of authentic instruments and the power of vocals. The chants empower the ritual side of the work. The music creates the feeling listening to a mix of Eastern atmospheres, Folk music from North European countries reminding the Vikings, but also Ethereal and Ritual music I link with the Pyrenees. There are more bands dealing with this music genre, but I was impressed by the maturity of the production. This work doesn’t sound at all as a debut work. The songs have been meticulously built up and often ending into a real apotheosis. This work is emotion, but still a part of evasion and mysticism. Both opening cuts are little sonic jewels.

– – – : I don’t see real minus points here.

Conclusion: If several songs have been inspired by prayers to Ancient Gods, this opus sounds like being touched by the Gods…

Best songs: “Epopteia”, “Mithra Invictus”, “Tenya Pon”, “Avekko”.

Rate: (8½).

Artist: www.facebook.com/Grande-Loge-123770461706538

Label: www.cycliclaw.com / www.facebook.com/cycliclaw