ELUVEITIE was founded in 2002 by Christian "Chrigel" Glanzmann and have become a well-known part of today's metal scene since then. Their original mixture of folk and melodic death metal which is enhanced by the use of a number of traditional instruments caused quite a stir right from the beginning. After their debut album "Spirit", the Nuclear Blast label debut "Slania" followed in 2008 and the band entered the charts for the first time.

Eight years after melodic death/folk metal band ELUVEITIE released their acoustic album "Evocation I", the Swiss musicians have stored their electronic instruments again in the rehearsal room. "The time feels right to go on with »Evocation II«! It's time for the album," tells Chrigel, who revived the concept after three successful albums in the usual ELUVEITIE style. "Evocation II" conjures another time travel to eras long gone. As the title already reveals, the concept of the first opus will continue and is entirely dedicated to the Celtic mythology. Even more, "Evocation II" takes you into the Gallic pantheon and bows down to the Celtic Gods after which the song titles are named. The character of each song is equal to the one of the God the song is about.

ELUVEITIE use motives from older songs that feature a topical reference to the world of Celtic gods, and thus the band has built a number of bridges for you to engage in a real treasure hunt. "Obtained to Celtic mythology, »Evocation II« is the album where everything converges and returns to its origin: the otherworld," comments Chrigel. The singing on "Evocation II" is also in Gallic (old Celtic) and offers great atmosphere. For the lyrics, ELUVEITIE have worked together with Celtic scientists from all over Europe to do justice to this masterpiece not only musically.

Given the fact that ELUVEITIE changed 3 core members last year, I was a bit skeptical about their future and I was in doubt if I should give "Evocation II" a go. I was right to do so though; the entire album has an element of mystery that takes the listener through 55 minutes of pure lyrical enchantment. The vocals are remarkably well done, on songs like "Epona", "Lvgvs:" and "Artio" and although Chrigel doesn't take main scene here, his vocals can be heard here and there all throughout the album, especially on "Catvrix". I do love Chrigel's voice, but I am not mad that I am not hearing him more, I like the female touch, I think it goes better with an acoustic release. "Taranis" is another track deemed to be mentioned, it has a fast paced like the god of thunder himself, whereas in pure antithesis we have "Belenos", which is more gentle, more soothing.

Overall, this new installment from ELUVEITIE is a great piece of art. Yes, I am calling it art, they paid great attention to details - from the theme, lyrics, language to the instruments playing in sterling harmony.