Band:	Cellar Darling
Album:	This Is The Sound
Style:	Folk metal, Folk rock
Release date:	June 2017
Guest review by:	Cynic Metalhead

01. Avalanche
02. Black Moon
03. Challenge
04. Hullaballoo
05. Six Days
06. The Hermit
07. Water
08. Fire, Wind & Earth
09. Rebels
10. Under The Oak Tree...
11. ...High Above These Crowns
12. Starcrusher
13. Hedonia
14. Redemption
15. The Cold Song [Mediabook bonus]
16. Mad World [Mediabook bonus][Tears For Fears cover]
17. The Prophet's Song [Mediabook bonus][Queen cover]

Cellar Darling, comprised of Anna Murphy, Ivo Henzi, and Merlin Sutter — three former members of the acclaimed folk metal band Eluveitie — crafted a multifaceted debut album in the form of This Is The Sound. Utilizing the distinctive traditional string instrument the hurdy-gurdy, the trio embark on a bold and enthralling journey through the realms of progressive and folk metal, forging a unique and distinctive identity in the process.

From the opening of "Avalanche", listeners are immersed in Murphy’s ethereal vocals, which seamlessly entwine with strong riffs and subtle drum patterns. Tracks like "Black Moon" and "Hullaballoo" highlight the band's skill in blending aggression with melody, crafting songs that are simultaneously complex and irresistibly catchy. The production is impeccable, showcasing the lush instrumentation and dynamic range that are quintessential to Cellar Darling's sound. Murphy’s hurdy-gurdy, a hallmark of their previous work, adds a captivating layer to the sonic landscape, giving the music a unique, almost mystical quality. Murphy’s voice, with its wide emotional range, is an epic center of the album. She shifts effortlessly from haunting whispers to powerful belts, conveying a spectrum of emotions that resonate deeply with listeners.

Lyrically, it delves into themes of personal struggle, nature, and existential reflection. The poetic depth of the lyrics, combined with the intricate musical arrangements, invites repeated listens to fully appreciate the layers of meaning and musicality. Songs like "The Hermit" and "Six Days" combine thought-provoking lyrics with elaborate compositions, offering a rich, immersive experience. "Water" changes the pace yet again, blending the mystical prowess of Ayreon.

However, the album suffers from the complexity of arrangements, and some tracks may come off as overindulgent. While the band's ambition is commendable, a bit more restraint could have allowed certain elements to shine more brightly. Additionally, the pacing of the album occasionally falters, with some songs blending together and losing their individual impact. The album is bit on the long side as well.

Despite the shortcomings, This Is The Sound is an excellent effort that captures the essence of Cellar Darling's artistic vision: a fusion of the old and the new, the heavy and the melodic, the introspective and the anthemic. It's an album that demands attention, and is a true testament to Cellar Darling's talent and potential. Fans of instrumental folk metal with a sound of hurdy-gurdy plus soft and often soothing vocals will likely resonate with Cellar Darling.

Highlights: "The Six Days", "Water" and "The Hermit"