Track Listing

1. Arcus
2. Into the Twilight
3. Shadowlands
4. Break of Dawn
5. Innocence
6. Satori
7. Barefoot
8. Reverie
9. Lost
10. Fable
11. Imaginatio

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #72114 in Music
• Released on: 2004-10-05
• Number of discs: 1

Amazon.com
Oystein Ramsfjord would be a great name for a Norwegian death metal guitarist. But this Ramsfjord has opted for electronic keyboards and opulent music in the guise of Amethystium. Like his fanciful stage name, derived from the gem Amethyst, Ramsfjord's music is full of fantasy imagery. Titles such as "Arcus," "Shadowlands" and "Satori" give you a glimpse into a music where pristine sounds and descending-from-the-heavens synthesizers charge heroic melodies coasting atop an array of propulsive, almost danceable rhythm loops. Each successive Amethystium CD has gotten a bit less edgy, sweeter in their melodies and plusher in their arrangements, and while he doesn't step over the line into electro-Muzak, he comes close. In the past, his music has been likened to an imaginary soundtrack for The Lord of Rings, but Evermind is more pastoral elfin kingdoms and peaceful shires than storming orcs and demonic wizards. A little bit of that edge, a bit of depth beyond the pretty sounds, might make Evermind more profound than just pleasant listening. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews

Least Accessible, most introspective - a perfect ending
I love all of the amethystium CD's with a passion. No music i have ever heard has been able to top that of Oystein Ramfjord. His ability to mix sounds into a whirling musical stream of melody is a wonder to behold.

I was a bit surprised at my first listen to this CD. Unlike the other 2 releases, this one is slower, and seems to be deeper- looking within almost. Unlike the inviting ride of "Opaque" or the transcendent melody of "Shadow to Light", these songs seem light on the keyboard and heavy on the atmospheres. However, within this seemingly different style, there also exists a mystical quality, a more subtle side, that seems to give this album great meaning.

I believe the best track on here is "imaginatio". The wailing electric guitar seems to shake with raw energy, while the melody and atmosphere carry the listener far away. I can think of no better way than this song to end 3 CD's of musical genius.

I can't suggest this album as a first buy for amethystium. However, this CD is essential to the series. And I hope that Ramfjord continues to produce music in the future.

For The Electronic New Age Fan
Oh, Wow!
This is a cd that will be liked by all who enjoy Enigma, Mehdi, Adiemus, Delerium, Mythos or even Robert Miles. It is the very essence of good electronic new age. So tranquil, yet so spirited (and interesting coverart!), this cd is a refreshing break from my well-worn collection, I just keep wanting to listen to it over and over again. I am amazed!
It reminds me somewhat of Enigma, but still very unique. This is music to the soul. Absolutely relaxing, as well.

ALSO RECOMMENDED: Mehdi ~ Instrumental Series 1-7 ..A True Gem...Samples are at SoothingMusic,Com...Just go Listen.

Remarkable return!
The Norwegian musician outdoes himself once again! "Evermind" is another artistic leap forward from his previous two albums in one major way. Where as the former two often copied drum loops from other peoples songs, "Evermind" limits doing this and as a result the album overall is a lot more original in sound.

"Arcus" begins with a crackling sound effect and becomes a beautiful, heavenly track with a beautiful blend of mid-tempo beats and beautiful female vocal effects. In a sense, this reminds me of Paul Scharz's "State of Grace" song.