Various Artists: Summoning of the muse ~ a tribute to Dead Can Dance (CD)

From Gothic Paradise Out of all of the labels in the world, Projekt Records is the perfect choice to gather and compile the best possible tribute to the legendary band Dead Can Dance. With the label showing good activity with some incredible releases in 2005, it’s only fitting that this tribute should round out the summer releases with possibly the best piece out this year. After enchanting us with their own legendary music, Arcana enters onto this tribute with two excellent covers of “The Arcane” and “Enigma of the Absolute”. Both of these tracks sport the bombastic approach to neo-classical and medieval music that we’ve enjoyed so much from them over the years. Another absolute favorite of mine appears on this disc as Dark Sanctuary presents their beautifully captivating version of the title track “Summoning of the Muse.” This is truly a rendition to be remembered and cherished by fans worldwide. A true treat and something entirely unexpected is the guitar-laiden, dreamy, shoegazer version of “Musica Eternal” from Autumn’s Grey Solace. Among the many other great covers we’re presented with Black Tape for a Blue Girl covering “Fortune presents gifts not according to the book”. As their style over the years has dictated, this seems to be the perfect cover by Sam, Lisa, Vicki, Elysabeth and Athan to do. Another slight surprise was presented in the form of “In Power We Entrust the Love Advocated” by the now defunct band Chandeen. Many fans will remember this track from several years ago. The album packs a dozen excellent tracks, all to be highly commended and excellently done. Each band presents their own style and interpretation of the legendary works, but stay very true to the original styles to provide something that Dead Can Dance fans can really enjoy. I think that is the real key to these tribute albums, providing something that fans of the original band can listen to, relate to and really enjoy. This album is highly recommended not only for DCD fans, but for anyone that enjoys anything by any artist on this compilation. Be sure to check it out! Rating: 5/5