Alcest - Souvenirs d'un Autre Monde

It’s kind of odd in a way to see this album being praised upon on a bunch of metal sites due to just how this record sounds and where it fits in the whole musical scope of things. I suppose it shouldn’t be really a huge surprise or anything however considering the background for Alcest and the man behind it all Neige is fairly established in black metal. Still, it’s a bit interesting. While I can’t say I am too familiar with any of the projects previous material, I assume that most of it isn’t as beautiful and dreamy sounding as this. Still that hasn’t kept fans from saying plenty of good things about the latest album Souvenirs d'un Autre Monde and really it shouldn’t because the album is simply one of the most beautiful things that has come out this year. To sort of sum up Alcest on Souvenirs d'un Autre Monde, it’s basically black metal meets shoegaze/post-rock. Probably more shoegaze and post-rock than anything else, however the buzzing dissonance of black metal inspired guitar is still fairly prominent within Alcest’s sound. However, that’s about as black as this album will get, as the focus for Souvenirs d'un Autre Monde is not to be dark, depressing, and forlorn…rather it’s meant to instill a sense of hope and freedom within the listener. In actuality I remember reading that the album is actually about being a child and the innocence that comes with it, which is fine by me because the idea results in a very powerful and beautiful sounding album. The lyrics are all done in French anyway, so I suppose really to someone like me that can’t translate it, it could mean just about anything. Regardless, Souvenirs d'un Autre Monde is a great album that shoegazers and possibly even metal fans can find some interest in. As for me, I honestly hope Alcest remains heading in this direction. More music like what can be found on Souvenirs d'un Autre Monde would definitely be fine by me.

Alcest - Souvenirs d'un Autre Monde [MP3]

For those interested in checking this out, it can be had over at Profound Lore. Definitely comes recommended.