Popol Vuh
On The Way To A Little Way (Soundtracks From "Nosferatu")

This album by Popol Vuh, titled "On The Way To A Little Way (Soundtracks From "Nosferatu")", represents an alternative version of the soundtrack for the film of the same name by Herzog, originally released by the French label Egg in 1978 and later reissued on CD by Spalax. Although it contains most of the music used in the film, some tracks were excluded, reserved for another 1978 release titled "Brüder des Schattens Söhne des Lichts", known in Italy as "Nosferatu The Vampyre (Original Soundtrack)", published by PDU in 1979. I have already discussed this latter work here on DeBaser and invite anyone interested to consult that review. Personally, I find this French edition clearly superior. While including excerpts from the film's soundtrack, the album presents itself as a remarkable collection of unreleased works and pieces from previous productions by the band. The tracks, characterized by a contemplative and repetitive atmosphere, sometimes evoke the suggestions of Indian raga instrumentals, thanks to their transcendent and peaceful effects. They are almost true mantras, music that emanates from within (as in "Mantra", "Morning Sun Rays", "Venus Principle", the latter written by the great Al Gromer already featured in the masterpiece "Hosianna Mantra"). Those who appreciate the multiple facets of the band, from the early electronic phase of "In den Gärten Pharaos" to the later acoustic one with sitar and tablas, will find a precious gem in this album. It also includes excellent reinterpretations of themes from previous albums, like the mentioned "In den Gärten Pharaos" or "Einsjäger & Siebenjäger". One might expect a dark atmosphere for a "Nosferatu" soundtrack, but what emerges here is a luminous and ethereal work, evoking the best productions of the group from the seventies.