"Winterstead’s biggest accomplishment is that it travels you to a place where winter reigns supreme and is without end; a place where magic is real and strong. It feels like a journey to a mountain covered with snow and ancient trees. The ascension to the mountain is challenging and full of adventurous twists and turns, as you never know what the next corner hides. When you finally reach your destination, you are greeted by firelights gloaming from the townspeople’s huts. Just before you visit the lodge, filled with all types of characters from hunters to tradesmen, you take a deep breath and look around you; the snow-capped mountain peaks dwarf the giant sequoia trees towering above you. The feeling of mystique is so palpable and there is a sense of darkness in the air. However, everything is so enchanting that you can’t wait to step into that lodge, sit in front of the fireplace and listen to tales about what roams the uncharted lands before you.
Guild of Lore’s debut is an amazing companion, if you are willing to immerse yourself in a magical world; an evocative experience that transports the listener to a medieval setting. The music is varied and contains a number of different sounds, as GM Ingsmith never dwells on an idea for too long. As a result, the album flows easily and feels more like the soundtrack of an Elder Scrolls game rather than that of an early ‘90s RPG (‘90s RPGs rule btw). In addition, there is a great sense of melody, while the use of certain sound effects gives the LP a feeling of coziness. An atmospheric offering, it has some dark elements but this is not what prevails here; the emphasis is on creating lush, but not over the top, arrangements that emit a sense of grandeur. As such, it feels less dungeon-y than traditional DS.
The result of the above, is that Winterstead is not only a very enjoyable experience but also a good starting point for those who are not very familiar with dungeon synth as a whole. The feeling of progression makes this one an undemanding, yet rewarding listen. So, pour yourself a glass of brandy, sit comfortably by the fire, and enjoy the winter."
-
"The influence of composer Jeremy Soule on The Elder Scrolls video game series can be felt in full force on Winterstead, the first full-length from Californian artist Guild of Lore. Over the course of its 10 tracks, Winterstead paints the image of a sparsely-populated and sprawling medieval landscape. I can’t help but envision the comfort of the archetypal fantasy tavern in “The Long Lodge,” and its obvious contrast to the rest of the album’s noticeably chillier atmosphere; the track creates the feeling of a brief respite from a perilous winter trek. With a blend of classical instrumentation, frostbitten melodies, and expert pace, this is the perfect soundtrack to see you through these long winter months." -Ari Delaney
"Cold, oh so cold but peaceful too. The references to video games/adventure role playing games is one that fits. The ten tracks that make up this interesting and unique listen are filled with sombre sounds, disconcerting melodies and rumbling oppressive effects. It’s a journey album, one that is filled with troubles and strife but also relaxation and comfort. See The Long Lodge and Voice of the Mountain as both great examples of the peacefulness and darkness that surrounds the music here."
-Full Review at
