The Seim Anew
Kernunna
•
January 25, 2015

Okay music nuts. Let's take a minute and imagine there's a band that sounds like YES, RUSH, CRUACHAN, and BLIND GUARDIAN all rolled up into one extremely Prog-y, Folk-y, Rock-y, Metal-y package. Now imagine that same band as a reality and multiplied in awesomeness. This band would be one of Brazil's premiere experimental bands in the ensemble known as KERNUNNA! Their latest release "The Seim Anew" (15 November 2014) is one incredible blend of techniques, instruments, influences, and styles, sure to capture the attention of any lucky person who should discover it!
As you might expect from the previous description, there is a lot that went into this album. While most Modern Metal music takes on the approach of "the heavier the better" I think that KERNUNNA have went in a completely different direction while still accomplishing an unbelievably satisfying blend of uplifting and beautiful music. Their use of folk and traditional instruments was incorporated nicely into the usual mix of guitars, bass, and percussion. The flutes, the violins, the keyboards, and even a banjo all create an intellectually-stimulating blend. My ears were beyond pleased and my brain was delightfully tickled, which doesn't necessarily happen very often from music alone. It takes some truly genius and unique stuff to captivate me as this album did.
There are some features upon which I'd like to elaborate some. If you're familiar with the 70's Neo-Progressive Rock band YES, then you might be able to think of the harmonizing vocals and the quick tempo changes that was common with their music. Next, if you're familiar with RUSH, you will be able to hear (especially in "Snark") some of those amazing synths and bass lines Geddy Lee was so adept at incorporating into their music. Combine the folk rhythms and instruments of CRUACHAN (among other Folk Metal bands) and the thundering Power Metal riffs similar to that of BLIND GUARDIAN and you begin to have an idea of what is in store.
As you can imagine, it's quite an earful but in the most melodious, thought-provoking, mood-enhancing meaning possible. I was so truly impressed by this album that it stands out as one of my favorites in the realm of Progressive Folk Metal. I should also say that music like this would make for an amazing live show as well. Witnessing the talent being played face-to-face before me would probably be one of the most unique experiences I could have as a concert goer. So trust me when I say, my mind is anew, courtesy of "The Seim Anew"!
9 / 10
Almost Perfect

"The Seim Anew" Track-listing:
1. Kernunna
2. Curupira's Maze
3. The Seim Anew
4. Snark
5. Dreamer
6. Pòg Mo Thòin
7. The Last of The Seven Ears
8. The keys to. Given!
9. Ricorso
Kernunna Lineup:
Alex Navar - Uilleann Pipes, Tin e Low Whistle
Bruno Maia - Vocals,Guitar, Flutes, Banjo, Bouzouki, Bandolim
Daiana Mazza - Violin
Edgard Brito - Keyboards
Diniz - Guitars, Vocals
Khadhu - Vocals, Bass, Viola, Sitar
Rodrigo Abreu - Drums
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