Genre: Neofolk / Neoclassical

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Far Black Furlong is a British based, upcoming Neofolk and Neoclassical project, deep in the roots of Heathenism and Spirituality. Fortunately, the band has the ability of a nice start in the scene, with links to Current 93, among others.

To introduce the ensemble, allow me to take a small chapter from the Milk And Moon site. Far Black Furlong founder members include Richard Moult (exceptional multifaceted artist, painter and musician; collaborator of David Michael Tibet and composer of the beautifully received album The Secret Joy, available from Cynfeirdd), Mark Baigent (conductor of the Dream English ensemble for Current 93's forthcoming Whilst The Night..., a renowned Baroque/Classical oboist who also plays live in Richard Moult's classical song ensemble), Andy Cotterill (an electronics genius) and Ian Tengwall (of the group Small Blue Fish who recorded the Whilst the Night sessions). Guests of the ensemble have included Amanda Votta (of The Floating World), Anne Marie Summers (of Misericordia) and dulcimer player John Letcher, who made the replica Sumerian harp which was featured on Live Aid Africa.

Expecting something like "Nature and Organisation", I am pleasantly pleased at my judgement, as the seven minute opening track is an elegant and winsome piece of Piano, before the album does something to me that only one sound can ever do...but I'll leave this surprise to you. What an immensely and drowningly beautiful track, it reminds me in so many ways of the Oriental theme to Burzum's "Tomhet", and sounds this haunting don't go unawarded.

East Room is merely a drop in the ocean of instrumental diversity, it weaves an ornate tapestry of Dulcimers, Harps, and other associated instruments, the only thing missing from this is the Bodhran. A completely gentle, delicate and emotional EP, littered in choral pleasure, and the aim here is just to serve as a gateway between the Ambient and Neofolk portals. I'd say this is absolutely essential, but the truth is it won't linger in your mind. It is very pretty though. I like pretty.

One to watch.