Summoning
Dol Guldur

My first review. Something to state upfront anyway, both for when negative comments will rain down on me, and for when (maybe) the positive ones will. In short, it's just a small preface that we'll now set aside to make space for what is the core of this writing. Dol Guldur. One of the best albums produced by Summoning, one of the greatest Black Metal albums of all time. Yes, because this for me is pure Black Metal. I already know that many will not appreciate these words of mine, but I think that the true meaning of black music is precisely this. To thrill, to touch the deepest chords of those who listen to this wicked music. And forgive me, but Summoning does it perfectly. They may have lyrics focused on The Lord of the Rings, use too many 'computerized' instruments, drum machines, etc., etc., but gentlemen... who among you can resist their notes? So dreamy, so... perfect. There is no better term to describe their compositions. But enough compliments; we have an album to review here.

Frankly, it's difficult to review song by song because at a certain point, the adjectives would run out, and I would find myself doing one of those really unpleasant things, so I will 'limit' myself to trying to present in context (by taking only a few tracks as examples) what I want to convey to you and what Summoning has transmitted to me.

Surely the peculiarity of the compositions 'made in Summoning' is the length. Almost all tracks are close to ten minutes, except for the instrumental ''Angbands Schmieden'' and ''Wyrmvater Glaurung'' which in my opinion represent the only decline, if it can be called a decline, especially when compared to the others.

''Kor'', ''Elfstone'', ''Khazad Dum''. In my opinion, these are the most beautiful, the most touching. "Elfstone" is obviously a Summoning-style piece, long, verbose, fundamentally repetitive, but full of melodies. Croaking voice, blaring sounds that carry us throughout the time, up until the two breaks. Those present at minute six and at minute ten, where it really feels like being in another world, or at least that's what we would like. And so the song fades, but within us, everything is still present and alive and kicking.

Sound of trumpets (or a similar instrument), almost as if to announce that something or someone tremendously important is coming. Austere sound that continues and proceeds with the introduction of drums that make the picture, which is now taking more and more shape and color, even more solemn. In short, this is ''Khazad Dum''. There are no words to describe it, one should simply put it on their iPod and set out on a long journey. An infinite journey made of endless green meadows, but also of fierce battles. This is probably the proudest and most majestic piece of the entire album. In short, listen, assimilate, understand, appreciate... Wonderful.

''Kor''....... Just start it... and everything is already clear.. A few seconds are enough, that brief initial attack that paves the way for the greatest pearl of this Dol Guldur... One only needs to close their eyes here.. Silenius and Protector will take you up into the sky to dance with the ethereal figures of Olympus (or Middle-earth, whatever one prefers)... a small break in the second minute allows the track to start again like a sort of bomb. And so also at minute nine. In short, the last 50 seconds are truly to give pure chills.

 ''Unto a Long Glory'' and 'Over Old Hills' are beautiful in turn but after listening to the three I've mentioned... it's difficult to hold a comparison.

An intense album that must be listened to from beginning to end, absolutely. For me, it is something unique, rare, and wonderful.

Only one thing I allow myself to criticize Summoning on. The use of lyrics not of their ownership. I consider Silenius and Protector two geniuses that if with music they know how to do what they do... imagine how touching their own written lyrics would be.... They would be the perfect combination. But it's okay this way.

Thank you, and I hope not to receive significant criticism, I gave it my all. Bye, and until next time!!!