Mystic Forest - Romances

This is one of those albums that I really enjoy, but never think to play on a daily basis. Mystic Forest is a black metal band from France, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's just another Les Legions Noir sounding rip-off band.

Mystic Forest is a severe constrast to the stereotypical raw, under-produced, cold and grim LLN French black metal. The black sheep of the family, mastermind Stefan Kozak incorporates romantic, melancholic Chopin piano interludes, flutes, and accordion-like guitar into this 42 minute opus. The music is very French indeed, I can just imagine strolling down the Champs-Elysees, seeing the black-and white striped beret-wearing Frenchmen carrying bagettes.

If Mortifera added pianos and accordions, they might sound something like this. This release is highly recommended for all fans of well-produced melodic black metal. Darkthrone fans, avoid.