Amazon.com

A greatest-hits package sampling four Enigma discs released between 1990 and 2000, LSD splendidly documents the influential output of Michael Cretu, a techno-bohemian who successfully creates cinematic, otherworldly New Age-like musical suites. Now, more than a decade removed from the arrival of Sadeness (Part 1) and its eyebrow-raising mix of sacred and sensual subplots, people can debate whether Cretu's music represents savvy commercial calculation or satisfying art. LSD suggests a split decision, though tracks with intriguing blends of atmosphere and rhythm, such as "Gravity of Love," "T.N.T. for the Brain" and "Morphing Thru Time," reveal an inventiveness that demonstrates Cretu is capable of more than sophisticated novelty tunes. Two new songs, neither especially noteworthy, open this package. Meanwhile, remastered older tracks segue beautifully to exude a satisfying, seamless unity. Big bonus: run time exceeds 76 minutes. --Terry Wood ... Read more

Reviews (73)

to jerry fry. advice
When Enigma started to sound in Spain I must say I didn't like at all. I hated Sadeness. Now is one of my favourite songs in the history of music. I started apreciating 1 or 2 years later listening to my dad's CD. I rate 4 out from 5 cos there are some changes I would do in the best songs album. As I've read from you, jerry, the 2 songs you like are instrumental and more or less soft, relaxing. 1st cd, MCMXCa.c. has 2 "strong" songs (Principles of lust, which contains Sadeness and Find love, and Mea culpa), 1 intro as every Enigma cd, 3 more relaxing (Callas went away, Knockin on forbidden doors and Rivers of belief) and the other one is like an intro (The voice and the snake).
2nd one, Cross of changes is, perhaps, stronger (Return to innocence, I love you...I'll kill you-which I love-, Silent warrior, Age of loneliness and Out of the deep). There is one long instrumental (Eyes of truth) and 2 short "melodics" (Dream of the dolphin and the cd closing Cross of changes).
3rd, Le roi et mort, vive le roi (King is dead, Life for the King in french). More calm songs (Morphin thru time, Shadows in silence, Almost full moon and Odyssey of the mind), and 3 stronger (Why, TNT for the brain and Roundabout). The other 3 are relaxin I think (the single Beyond the invisible, Child in us and Prism of life).
Finally, The screen behind the mirror: 5 strongs (Push the limits, Gravity of love, Modern crusaders, Camera obscura and Silence must be heard). 5 relaxin (Traces, Screen behind the mirror, Endless quest, Between heart and mind and my favourite Smell of desire).
I think four of them are very similar in that way, maybe second is the strongest and could be worse for you. Try with 1st or 3rd, but if you have the oportunity make yourself a mix with the calmest songs I recomend you: Callas went away, Knockin on forbidden doors, Rivers of belief, Beyond the invisible, Shadows in silence, Almost full moon, Traces, Between mind and heart and Smell of desire. Take into account that there are not breaks between songs in the cd's if you want to mix them. It seems me a bit unfair not to include my 2 favourite songs: Principles of lust (12 minutes) and I love you...I'll kill you (9 minutes). They mix strong and calm passages.
ciao

Stunning and enchanting
I'm a huge Enigma fan. I find Enigma's music soothing and comforting to relax too. Although I own all four of their albums, I wanted to buy their greatest hits especially after hearing one of their new songs "Turn Around". I believe that "The Landing" and "Turn Around" are the two new tracks on the cd, or never been released. I particularly dug "Turn Around", such a breath-taking epic. "The Landing" made for a good opening track to lead the listener into this enchanting album. All the well-known tracks on this cd is found such as "Sadeness" and "Return to Innocence". My personal favorite songs were included on this cd such as "Gravity of Love", "Mea Culpa", "Beyond the Invisible", and "Morphing Thru Time". Over 70 minutes long, I was not disappointed in this cd. This cd is great for casual listeners interested in hearing only Enigma's more familiar songs. Definitely one of the best greatest hits compilations ever to be released in my honest opinion.

stunning
a highly adventurous and pioneering success of a collection.

Enigma has always deftly combined a mind expanding and enlightening sound with a pop sensibility - not such an easy task.

A MUST FOR ALL ENIGMA FANS!
i have to admit that at first i didn't think that it would be necessary to purchase this enigma greastest hits compilation. i mean especially when you're a fan who already has all their cds, what would be the point of doing so? well i have to say i was wrong! i purchased this cd and was not the least bit disappointed! for one thing, it has various remixed tracks, such as "tnt for the brain" and i must say the track on this cd far exceeds the original one found on enigma's third album "le roi est mort, vive le roi." in my personal opinion, "tnt for the brain" is reason enough to buy this greatest hits compilation, so amazing this song really is!! i also love how all the songs flow nicely into one another, so you feel as though it is one long ride through time; no pauses in between to distract you from your voyage! :) i'd have to say, the one thing that usually "bothered" me about enigma cds was how they never really exceeded an hour... well this cd definitely surpasses that time period, and does so wonderfully... if you are a true fan of enigma, you won't regret making this purchase! enjoy!!
+ in nomine Christi, Amen +

I'll be quick to the point here.....
I;ll be quick to the point here...this is a great CD to have great S&X to. Get it, and use it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

So much unnecessary fuss was made over Enigma's juxtaposition of the sexual and sacred. After all, Prince had been doing it for years, and his take on it was far more interesting--and a lot more daring. But Enigma's MCMXC A.D. did manage to work a lot of people into a lather, both on the dance floor and behind the pulpit. Their inclusion of chanting monks in "Sadeness," over wooshy ambient noises and a slower hip-hop-appropriated beat was a sensation. "Callas Went Away" promised more than it could deliver, although "Mea Culpa" stands as one of the few shining moments on the CD. The idea of mixing new age aural wallpaper with beats that you can do a slow grind to is actually rather intriguing. Spicing it up with controversial religious chants isn't a bad idea either. But there's got to be something personal to it. After the initial novelty wears off, there's nothing to MCMXC A.D. other than bland, cold, impersonal repetition. Now, that might be what most people are used to, but what's so sexy about it? --Steve Gdula ... Read more

Reviews (119)

Float Off Into Space With This Masterpiece
"MCMXC A.D." by the one-man studio group known as Enigma (aka Michael Cretu) is a timeless blend of ambient new age sounds & beats, chanting monks, sultry female vocals (supplied by Cretu's wife, Sandra Cretu), and washes & washes of beautifully lush, atmospheric keyboards. It's the *perfect* disc for playing late at night with the lights out. When "MCMXC A.D." first came out 12 years ago, I couldn't stop playing it. I was so taken by it's sheer beauty, and how listening to it could just transport me to another place & time. 12 years later, the album still holds up marvelously. Everybody knows the hit "Sadness Part 1," with it's chanting monks over an ambient dance beat, but there are many more delights to be found here, including "Callas Went Away, "Mea Culpa," "Knocking On Forbidden Doors," and "The Rivers Of Belief." From start to finish, this album is simply intoxicating.Just looking at the classic album cover (with a monk on a mountaintop staring into a bright ray of light) always makes me smile. I've been a diehard Enigma fan ever since "MCMXC A.D." came out, and I've thoroughly enjoyed the three albums so far that have followed it. But "MCMXC A.D." remains Enigma's signature piece, a truly unique album that no music collection is complete without. Turn off the light, take a deep breath, and let the rhythm be your guiding light. :-)

A brilliant, emotional, sensual piece of art
Enigma is probably best known as the band that introduced Gregorian chants to dance music (though, in actuality, many bands had been doing this for several years in Europe). I must admit, that is one of the key things I remembered about this release. But after listening again to MCMXC a.D., I remember much more. For those people who understand and appreciate the power of music to enhance mood, this release is an experience in sensuality. Layered with religious symbolism, lush female vocals, spoken word (often in French), sounds from nature, and sensual beats, Enigma takes the listener (or listeners, as this release is also enjoyable with a companion) on a journey of self actualization, inner peace, and outward passion.

The release begins with "Voice of Enigma", a soothing intro to the album. Not really a song, this short piece places the listener in a relaxed state of mind which helps one best enjoy the remaining 40+ minutes.

The next song, "Principles of Lust," allows one to slip into deep relaxation and sensual exploration. Clocking in at over 11:30, this is actually a combination of three songs that flow together. a. "Sadeness" is Enigma's classic and first big hit. It is very sensual and relaxing, however at the same time it is stimulating and encourages one to be tactile. b. "Find Love" starts off as a sensual, atmospheric piece that floats all around the listener. Then it moves to a funky beat that is very assertive and more active. Also known as "The Principles of Lust." c. "Sadeness (Reprise)" returns the listener to the feelings in "Sadeness." However, the additional piano is very deep and stimulates one to be reflective.

"Callas Went Away" makes me think of young lovers who have stolen away from the village into the woods at dusk for a lovers' tryst.

"Mea Culpa" grabs one's attention and provides a sense of urgent desperation. The beats, the chant, the marching footsteps, and the rain make one feel like one is trying to escape from someone or something. This is a very powerful song.

"The Voice & the Snake" is discordant and disturbing, shaking one violently from a relaxed state. Fortunately, it is only a little over a minute and a half, ending the discomfort quickly.

"Knocking on Forbidden Doors" gives one a sense of need for control and for asserting oneself, strongly yet with a gentle, loving touch.

"Back to the Rivers of Belief," which concludes the release, has three parts. a. "Way to Eternity" slows one back down, allowing one to become calm and reflective once again. b. "Hallelujah" reintroduces the rhythm, allowing one to slowly again explore one's inner (or outer) senusuality. The tinkling bells are like a soft rain falling to the ground, or perhaps on oneself. c. "The Rivers of Belief" is a sensual, relaxing conclusion to the album. Whether shared with oneself or with another, this song helps reaffirm the love and passion one feels for oneself or one's partner.

This is an excellent release, especially for those who understand and enjoy the power of music to enhance the mood, whether one is alone or with that special someone. A sensual delight, MCMXC a.D. deserves a strong 5 star recommendation.

Enigma is the best
I remember when i bought the first Enigma cd MCMXC AD i couldn't get enough. I have listened to this cd (no Lie) about a thousand times. It is sexy and pleasureable to the mind and ears. This is music you can really feel. I remember when i just couldn't wait for Enigma to release more of their music. Now I own every cd they have made. Every song on every cd I love, Enigma can do no wrong (or make a bad song). All cd's are my favorite I love Enigma I can't choose just one cd. I hope Michael Cretu continues to make music till he dies. Everyone I've introduced to Enigma has turned out to love it. Thanks Michael Cretu keep putting out the CD's and I'll keep buying.
Definately invest your money and your listening pleasure in Enigma. If God made music this is what it would probably sound like.

mentally sexy music
When I was driving down the highway in my big big truck,listening to this music,I was nearly fell asleep.I almost lost my life.Then an angel flew down on me and said something very very sweet to me.She said I am a voice of ENIGMA.The next moment I was in the sky flying over the clouds.I was deeply absorbed in the journey of my pure mind.I was so refreshed and finally found myself in a starnge room full of sexy angels waiting for me for a long long time.This music is a kind of drug that take you higher and higher to the next spiritual level.
So passionate and alluring !!

Was it REALLY that controversial?
Back in 1990, while I was still working in radio, a program director who shall remain nameless demanded that I pull the single "Sadeness" off the air because he thought it was "blasphemous." I was kind of dumbfounded, because I found it to be contemporary and original, and not in the least bit obscene. Just the kind of antidote to the blandness of the New Kids On The Block kiddy pop and dump truck loads of Whitney/Mariah clones being force fed to radio at the time. Of course, like any young buck worth his artistic salt, being told "NO" only made me want to find out more about this "Enigma" cat.

Once I got the full CD, I could understand how the easily shaken were getting their dander's flaked by Enigma. "MCMXC A.D." was the first album that used the fresh idea of mixing new age keyboards with chanting Monks and giving them the kind of rhythm that would work as a slow grind on the dance floor -- or more important -- late night nasties in the bedroom. Then there was the "Sadeness" video, which pictured a rather religious looking fellow as he dreams/hallucinates about a sultry looking woman and beams of light. Yup - just the kind of thing to turn the album into a nocturnal classic, dance floor smash and a magnet for those prone to censor that which might ruffle their too fragile sensibilities.

Surprisingly (or not), the album holds up pretty well all these years later. Tidal waves of imitations flew up in "MCMXC AD's" wake, but none (save maybe Deep Forrest) ever made much of an impact. You can also probably blame/credit Enigma for making top sellers out of the Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo de Silos (remember 1994's "Chant"?). With all that has been going on in music since, "MCMXC AD" seems almost quaint, but this album remains an artifact from the end of the new age decade. And it still gets played in my playroom. ... Read more

Amazon.com's Best of 2001

While not as out-of-left-field revelatory and astonishing astheir exalted debut,nor as darkly magnetic as their sophomore follow-up,Volume 3: Further in Time finds Afro Celt SoundSystem fleshed out, funky, and fiercely fresh. Now a band of20-some-odd players, the Afro Celts push forward with unbounded energy andfocus, organically driven beats, and a thoroughly joyous fusion of WestAfrican and Irish traditional music enhanced with dissonant Easterninfluence, psychedelic trip-hop groove, and a monster flood of sonicwaves. The resultant sound is somehow both cutting-edge futuristic andprimitive in its visceral virility. Demba Barry steps up with anunexpectedly punchy African hip-hop-styled vocal on "Shadowman,""Lagan" plays out into an orchestral swan dive, and, throughout, JohnnyKalsi and Moussa Sissokho come on like gangbusters with the drums. RealWorld label honcho and world-music champion Peter Gabriel doesa stunning turn on the eminently catchy "When You're Falling," and Robert Plantcontributes a powerfully epic rock vocal on "Life Begins Again." Fineas all these moments are, the centerpiece of volume 3, where the bandachieves beyond perfect synthesis, is the ecstatic groove-lock on theAfrican acid ceilidh of "Colossus." Volume 3 is the tune-in turn-onwe've been waiting for. --Paige La Grone ... Read more

Reviews (55)

Breathtaking.... I'm speechless
This has got to be the best world album ever made. It surpasses anything I've ever heard before....

After buying the Stigmata soundtrack and hearing Afro Celt's "Release" with Sinead 'O Connor I thought that it was good but not enough so to persuade me to buy their record. But when I heard of their new release on CNN's Worldbeat I became deeply curious. It wasn't until I heard three songs on two different occasions from a local radio station that I knew I had to obtain their third album Volume 3: Further In Time. I bought it with much haste and am so glad that I did because it fuses everything I look for in world music.

My favorites (though I love them all) would have to be the catchy single "When You're Falling" and "Persistence Of Life," which both feature the incredible male vocals of Peter Gabriel, the electronic-based "Shadowman," the African-dance tune "Further In Time," the rock/egyptian-tinged "Life Begin Again--" which is sung by Robert Plant--, "Go On Through" with its Celtic opening and its breakthrough to airy, alternative female singing by Pina, and the final track, "Onwards," which will enrapture you in its timeless beauty. In other words this CD is dazzling, notable, mesmerizing, and, simply put, world without boundaries. I'd suggest this record to anyone who likes plane good music. It's a good accomodation to anyone's home...

Simply breathtaking
Being a huge Peter Gabriel fan, I loved the first single "When You're Falling" off "Volume 3:Further in Time". His raspy vocals add a haunting quality to the song, along with the other track he sings vocals on "Persistence of Memory". "When You're Falling" alone was well worth the purchase.

"Volume 3:Further In Time" is my first exposure to Afro Celt Sound System's music. As a huge fan of world music I was immediately struck by the combination of celtic and African music with electronic beats. The results is a daring, if not provocative new sound that proves that two different cultures can meet in the middle and sound good together. It is so refreshing to listen to music that isn't intentionally created to be mass marketed for public consumption. "When You're Falling" has already started receiving radio airplay where I live, thanks to Peter Gabriel. I most certainly have to check out the band's other two albums in the future.

Thanks For The Introduction To Mehdi
I've always enjoyed Afro Celt and this album is no exception, but while reading some of the customer recommendations posted on this page I discovered an artist by the name of Mehdi (pronounced meddie). After some investigation I found his site (SoothingMusic.Com) and listened to the samples...
I was instantly blown away by the quality of this music and so I gave it a try and now that I have listened to his CDs several times I really must say that although I'm still a Afro Celt fan I find Mehdi to be a tad more interesting. I have them both in my multi-disc CD player and love the way they compliment each other. I highly recommend that you give this artist a try or atleast just go listen to the samples, I have a feeling you'll be glad you did.

A must for any music collection
I bought this on the blind, mainly based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, and I'm so glad I did. It's a personal favorite right now and is in heavy rotation....it doesn't get old. Great mixture of sound, tempo, vocals. Everyone asks who it is. There are so many good tracks, but "Persistence of Memory" gives me goosebumps every time. Simply, fantastic.

A Brilliant Song
I would suggest buying this CD just for track 10: Persistence of Memory. This is such a wonderful and beautiful song. This makes the whole CD worth it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Haunting, evocative, mysterious, and magnificent, Enigma's Cross of Changes offers nine musical explorations of sound and sensation that dazzle and amaze. The songs unfold in rolling waves, each more complex and richly layered than the last, yet each fully capable of standing alone as a musically satisfying experience. The standout track on this disc is "Return to Innocence," which combines Native American chanting, Celtic harmonies, and a deceptively simple lyric to devastating effect. At once esoteric and elemental, Cross of Changes is a fine example of the best the genre has to offer. --L.A. Smith ... Read more

Reviews (85)

Enigma- Chaper 2
"Cross of Changes" is my favorite Enigma album, it's a great mix of beautiful ambient music. Michael Cretu had dropped the "Trademark" Gregorian chants and concentrading on other things instead. There is more variety here though, Native American chants on "Return to Innocence", Piano playing on "Dream of the dolphin" and horns on "Silent Warrior". On "Age of Loneliness" we'll hear a wonderful female voice and backround drums and some horns. But Cretu also sings ofcourse, we'll hear his lyrics on "Return to innocence" and on "Out from the deep". The album closes with a perfect song,the title track "Cross of Changes". There is no song that is bad here actually. I enjoyed them all. This album was also one of the absolute top albums of 1994. Flawless.

Enigmatic
There is nothing to puzzle over for the second installment from Enigma, "The Cross of Changes". It is simply a great album. This is an album that flows from beginning to end without a single dead spot, or a single wrong note. The music is airy with, at times, a bit of an edge. The lyrics are perfect and the voice is used as an instrument whether it is just singing notes, Gregorian or Native American chants. This is a perfect album to turn off all the lights, turn up the stereo and just get lost in the music.

There are many great songs on this album. "Return to Innocence" has a strong Native American feel to it with the chant that is interspersed with soft lyrics. The music is so good that it has been pieces of it have been used in movies. Most notable is the ending portion of "The Eyes of Truth" in the file "The Matrix". The guitar screams through a solo in "I Love You...I'll Kill You" giving the song one of the more heavier edges on the album. "Silent Warrior" uses chants throughout in the background. In the middle of the song, tribal drums come forward providing support to the lyrics.

Enigma's songs are almost like stories. The song may grow and change as it progresses and many have several different movements to them. There is a beautiful blend of the different types of instruments in perfect proportions making the sum more than its parts. This is one band where you'll want to collect all their albums, and "The Cross of Changes" is a must have to any collection.

Cross Purposes
Enigma mesmerized everyone in 1990 when his/their debut became (we're all adults here, right?) a bedroom classic. He also took the music world by storm, and soon everyone from Deep Forrest to the Benedictine Monks were marking their territory with similar forays into new age and ambient music. Which meant that Michael Cretu was left with either trying to make "Sadeness-ness" or pushing his sounds in different directions.

To that end, he certainly did try! There's very little of the Gregorian sampling from the first album here, and in its place are explorations of Native American music and electric guitars. Not all of it works as well as the debut (those guitar solos in particular), but "Return To Innocence" is probably the best song he's ever come up with. Much like a modern day Alan Parsons Project, Michael Cretu builds songs like a sonic architect, layering images for effect, and on the opposite side, effects to evoke imagery.

In "I Love You...I'll Kill You," the sounds come off as dangerous and slinky. Considering the song was originally used in a stinker of a stalker movie called "Sliver," it fits. But the catcher is the song's final verse, where the voice whispers, "I love you, I'll kill you, but I'll love you forever." Now THAT'S the kind of freakiness that got the first album noticed, and it's the closest "Cross Of Changes" gets to the brilliance of "MCMXC A.D." (Though I could have lived without the rock guitar.)

While a pretty good album overall, I'd still recommend the debut first, and then "Cross Of Changes." If you're looking for more of the bombastic songs from Enigma's career, I'd then suggest going with the "L.S.D." hits collection, which skips the ambiance and concentrates more on popular selections.

Radiant!
This CD was awesome! Michael Cretu has done it again. With his first release of Enigma, I was shocked at the originality. It was just awesome how he incorporated different (enigmatic) sounds in his music and made it like one whole song. His first album was awesome with the revival of the Gregorian Chants and marvelous lyrics; now he has broght a different, powerful work with the same essence. The Cross of Changes concentrates in a Native American style instead of the Gregorain Chants. It is beautifully done! I love how Michael Cretu has thought of different cultures and times: Middle Ages of Gregorian Chants, ancient acoustic sounds mixed with modern synthtic sound, and in the song "Silent Warrior," the lyrics explain the Spanish takeover of Mayan culture. "They took their land/ They took their lives..../ White men won in the name of God." Very interesting lyrics throughout the music many involving ethical values. It begins with "The Second Chapter" describing that "we came out from the deep to help and understand and not to kill" and follows with different believes, but finally concludes: "If you understand or if you don't/ If you believe or if you doubt/ There's a universal justice/ And the eyes of the truth/ Are always watching you."

It sets a pure mood.
Even though to the new fan I'd recommend the "Greatest Hits", this is still a great disc for anyone. It does include "Return To Innocence", which may be their biggest hit ever, and though the rest isn't as catchy, it's very good. "Out From The Deep" is another stand-out, and "Age Of Loneliness" and "Eyes Of Truth" are both wonderful as well. This does remind me a bit of "Deep Forest", and of some things from "Peter Gabriel" too. It's a great mix of new age, pop, and world music. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Enigma, aka Michael Crétu, turns out more light electronic ambience on Voyageur, mixing in an occasional twist but sticking pretty close to his successful, easily digested formula. Since Enigma’s massively popular debut MDMXC A.D., Crétu has moved toward a more New Age/adult contemporary sound, culminating with 2000’s bland The Screen Behind The Mirror. As with that record, Voyageur’s weakest moments happen when Crétu puts his mediocre vocals front and center on tracks like "Total Eclipse of the Moon." Better are more beat-oriented songs like "Boum-Boum" that concentrate on seedier, sexier material and stay away from Crétu’s sappier instincts. While overall, Voyageur counts as an improvement over Mirror, Enigma still hasn’t found a replacement for the Gregorian chants and whispery techno that made MDMXC A.D. such a groovy sensation. --Matthew Cooke ... Read more

Reviews (120)

The Cocoon
In the late 1990, a soulful mix of dance beats, humming vocals, deep sighs and Gregorian chants came out of the blue and its name was Sadeness Part1. The result was massive hysteria and the MCMXC a.D album topped the charts around the world.

Then, in 1993 Cross of Changes was released and everyone admired the diversity in the music of Cretu's project, Enigma.

Three years later, Le Roi est Mort reached the stores. This unbearably ingenious album is still considered to be Enigma's best.

More recently, in 2000, Carl Orff's classic opera piece, Carmina Burana, received the best sampling treatment to date and the result was the unmistakably majestic sound of the smash hit album, The Screen Behind the Mirror.

After spending two or three years in production, Cretu released his last offering, Voyageur. Some consider it truly marvellous, others a disaster. I'd say its both, and that's what makes it so special.

Michael Cretu, has imprisoned his child, Enigma, in a cocoon, expecting it to transform, to reinvent itself, and to come out shimmeringly beautiful. This cocoon would be Voyageur, in which the battle between past and present takes place.

Voyageur's basic asset is the rhythms, rather than the melodies, which symbolize the struggle to survive, to transform, to become new. Voyageur can sound really strange in some places, but that's its beauty. It's just Enigma taking a different form.

Begginners will find this album enjoyable, while die-hard fans will either love it or loathe it. It's more like a question of personal expectations about Enigma.

Voyageur is Enigma5, it has brought changes and it has raised questions. but, its Enigma6 that will bring the answers..

PS: the version provided here, is not the one with the original cover (as potrayed in the picture) but the limited edition version, which, ironically, you can find almost anywhere.

But, what about the songs?

FROM EAST TO WEST: The same flute introduction sound which you could hear in the previous albums marks the starting point of the 5th enigma project, as well. Just when you think that nothing has changed, a dark techno-like beat comes in the surface and an intense instrumental with whistling sounds and breathtaking effects welcomes you in the Enigma5 experience. Good, but short

VOYAGEUR: Probably one of the best tracks on the album, if not one of the best songs of Enigma. An alluring deep bassline which plays from the beginning till the end of the song and the good old French Sandra vocals which still sound as fresh as they did in Sadeness, 13 years ago.

INCOGNITO: After a short break from Voyageur, in which Cretu lits a cigarette, a mumbling male voice, which plays the part of Incognito's bassline takes you in this strange, but interesting number. It sounds a lot like Chemical brothers, however a sample of Sadeness somewhere in the middle makes it clear that what you hear IS Enigma.

PAGE OF CUPS: a chill-out instrumental number, very well constructed, and if you hear it in the right place at the right time you're sure to love it. However, it doesn't have much of the mystical atmosphere that you may find in other Enigma instrumentals such as Traces (E4) or Shadows in Silence (E3). Yet, it is pleasant and relaxing

BOUM-BOUM: Great pop song, which could have been better if not for the vocoders. Nevertheles, it is one of the most pleasant Enigma pop recordings.

TOTAL ECLIPSE OF THE MOON: Nice, yet incomplete, it sounds too short, and a little bit dated (ex.Cretu's 79's Moonlight and Flowers). However, that's a good thing since this song might be considered as an introduction to the next retro number, LOOK OF TODAY

LOOK OF TODAY: The chorus lines sound a lot like ABC's Look Of Love. (that's the look, that's the look). This was done in purpose, since this song is about vanity and passing trends. What else would be more capable of expressing those Ideas than an 80s-tehno sounding number?

IN THE SHADOWN IN THE LIGHT: Nice lyrics, but why so much distortion on the vocals? Pleasant, though. Some may find this song really moving, however, it didn't work that way for me.

WEIGHTLESS: Great Number! Probably too short, but those indescribable sounds that come from nowhere are enough to put you to sleep. Nice!

THE PIANO: If it wasn't for the cheesy title, this song could mean much more. Nice Ibiza sounds, great chill-out rhythms and atmosphere. All in all, a pleasant trip through sunseting Ibiza.

FOLLOWING THE SUN: This probably is the best track. You really have to listen to it to get the picture. Nice old Enigma school. Does this mean we're going back to the basics?

As I said before, E6 will bring the answers...

There is to be an end to everything
I saw it coming with the release of The Screen Behind the Mirror. Your typical Enigma was ending. The 4th album did not have as many chants and had a harder edge to the music. Everything good eventually has to end so something different can start.
No matter how wonderful the Gregorian chants are, there is only so much you can do with them. I love MCMXC a.D. Who doesn't? But I don't want every cd released by Enigma to be a protoype of their first. The music would no longer be so enigmatic like it was because you know what to expect.
So whats up with the "new" Enigma? Is it Euro pop trash? Is it silly? Has Cretu lost his mind? Or is it just for us immature people who might like to listen to music legends like Madonna and Metallica?
HARDLY!
Ok, so I realize here everybody has a different taste of music. I can handle that. Not everybody is going to like this new sound of Enigma. Some like it better. Some like it just as well. And some people don't care for Madonna or Metallica as well.
But see the good in this change! So it doesn't have Gregorian chants anymore. Get over it! If you need Gregorian chants, go listen to MCMXC. It will always be there. That won't change. If you need songs like Beyond the Invisible, go listen to Le Roi Est Mort, Vive Le Roi. If I am not mistaken, that should be there too.
If you take the time to listen to Voyaguer, you might notice Cretu has almost hid little bits of the past in this cd. You can hear examples from Principles of Lust, like another reviewer wrote. I have heard it. You would be surprised what you hear that was taken from previous albums.
And everything else in this cd is brand new. I was taken back the first time I heard it. But I don't think its immature or only listened to by immature people. I see no reasoning from the sound of the new music to be able to make and justify the statement like that.
To be truthful, I love it. In fact...
It's currently taking N'Sync's spot in my cd player.

Thanks For The Introduction To Mehdi
I've always enjoyed Enigma and this album is no exception, but while reading some of the customer recommendations posted on this page I discovered an artist by the name of Mehdi (pronounced meddie). After some investigation I found his site (SoothingMusic.Com) and listened to the samples...I also downloaded some of the free MP3 downloads that are available on Amazon.com.
I was instantly blown away by the quality of this music and so I gave it a try and now that I have listened to his CDs several times I really must say that although I'm still a Eingma fan I find Mehdi to be a tad more interesting. I have them both in my multi-disc CD player and love the way they compliment each other. I highly recommend that you give this artist a try or atleast just go listen to the samples, I have a feeling you'll be glad you did.

Excellent! No better than this new style!
I haven't been one to really appreciate the words of others when
they praise music because usually it's such a matter of personal
taste but in this case I have to make a special exception. This
is kick ass music that is just not able to be passed up! It
screams for you to listen to it more. Even more so it is just
this feeling of having no reason to listen but listening anyway,
that enables us to feel what he is saying. This feeling requires
no effort from the listener, just a few listens to get the gist
of what Michel Cretu was trying to express. He does away with
the sampling of the past CD's, this time settling for a
beautiful arrangement of guitars and strange sounds you'll
wonder about.

Sorry, but don't buy the good reviews
I am an insatiable Enigma fan. This is my favorite group of all time. I bought MXC before it ever hit it big, and I marked on my calendar with excitement for the every three years Enigma puts out a record. I own every album, every remix and every DVD. This album is good, but it is missing all the brilliant layering of the earlier albums. "The Screen Behind the Mirror" keeps getting degraded on these reviews but it is a far better album than Voyageur. At least the signature Enigma sound is intact on that album. Cretu has become FAR too in love with his voice on this album and it actually ruins some otherwise good songs. Also, the lyrics are unbelievably cheesy at times. The album will grow on you, but it is still an overall disappointment.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE GO BACK TO YOUR OLD SOUND ENIGMA! You can still "explore" the boundaries of music with your old sound intact. ... Read more

Amazon.com

The primordial unknown--or the modern urban dweller's impressions thereof--has long been a staple of New Age music. So it was only a matter of time before some studio whiz got the notion to take the translation process one step further and bring that atmosphere to the dance floor. It's definitely authentic--the creators studied and borrowed genuine chants from African tribes--but just as importantly, it's remarkably seductive. The chart-topping signature song, "Sweet Lullaby," is indicative of what's going on in the grooves of the other nine tracks; ambient house beats burble pastorally while "multi-culti" samples ebb and flow gracefully, even romantically, through the mix. -- David Sprague ... Read more

Reviews (41)

Somewhere, deep in the jungle, are living some little men...
This record is a must have, because it defined a new era of crossover-style music. It took Pygmies and put them to an Enigma beat, with an occasional broken English (Dutch syntax?) commentary. Sounds cheezy, but it really works.

The band describes themselves as not a band. "Deep Forest" is a project, according to its creators. Therefore, the album is a stand-alone work, except that it enjoyed such an unpredicted success that it spawned a series of projects.

I first bought this album as an import in the early 90's. "Sweet Lullaby" had been getting some pretty frequent radio play on the San Francisco alternative rock stations, and it was simply intriguing. Nobody had ever heard voices like this. Mix in ambient jungle sounds. Synthetic beat. What a combination? Sound strange? It's not that different from what we hear today from Fatboy Slim and Moby, except of course with Pygmies. I don't think many have dared to replicate it.

Now, it's become a near-desert island CD for me. I've memorized the Pygmy chants. I've lost several copies of it--ex girlfriends, auto-thefts, etc. . . Always, I replace it. That's a pretty strong recommendation.

I've heard Deep Forest collaborations with Enigma, and Peter Gabriel, which are works of merit. Frankly, I think that this is still their most ingenious work.

Extraordinary! Absolutely extraordinary!
I first became familiar with Deep Forest after being amazed with their 1999 live album release "Made in Japan". Although it wouldn't happen until a while later, I later checked out their regular studio albums and finally got a hold of their self-titled debut album and I must say that this is a really amazing album and as it was ground-breaking back during 1993 when it came out, this album still stands out amongst the countless jabs at blending world music and modern New Age rhythms with mainstream dance music because it remains the only album I'm aware of that blends African Pygmy chants with Euro dance, New Age, and Pop in such a successful way. Even today, this album still has the power to take you to a place of harmony that is entire universes away from a hellish life and unkind world that seems to define reality. The album overall has a remote yet vibrant sound that is very natural and earthy in sound. Even the darker parts have a positive mood. Four Tracks on this album are actually two tracks in two separate versions.

The international chart topping hit "Lullaby" is what most Deep Forest fans are likely familiar with, making it's way onto several New Age and/or world compilations with it's light hip-hop beat but if you're going for it on here, you may have limited luck as the version on the album is quite different and must I say very unique too. There are two versions on this album. One is a 'regular' album version. This version is a bit darker and more ambient in nature than the single edit found on let's say the "Pure Moods" compilation. To me, this was a bit of a surprise but albeit, a very pleasant surprise. The second version towards the end of the album is called the "Ambient Mix" edit. This version has no defined rhythm and is mostly just ambient keyboards for the melody but has the amazing haunting chorus but the result is a fine and enchanting version of "Lullaby" heard in a totally different light. This version is very beautiful. The live version of this song though on the live recording entitled "Made in Japan" though is absolutely incredible! Give it a listen. They made an already great track even greater on the live album but let's not change the subject of this review. "Hunting" is a really unique and high-energy dance track that has a strong Sub-Saharan African Pygmy style with the odd voice effects and perfectly added to a fast rhythm. My favorite song in the first half of this album is "Nightbird". This song is just amazing. It has a very haunting and dark ambient sound with Pygmy voices up front and a atmospheric sound that gives the feel of a cloudy evening after a thunderstorm moves out. Now that's some really good music there.

I feel that there are two more pairs of songs that are almost like one song broken up in two. The first pair of songs are almost like remixes of the same song "Forest Hymn" with two different versions. The first version is the seventh track "Sahara Walk". The second version is the title of the same name "Forest Hymn". The first one "Sahara Walk" is a rather obscure but really danceable song that blends some old school hip-hop beats with African Pygmy voices, New Age, Pop and Dance to create a really engaging and highly addictive song. The haunting flutes give the song a rather haunting feel but at the same time, a very warm and sunny afternoon atmosphere. To me, this is a great thing. This song is one of my favorite tracks on this album and ranks as one of Deep Forest's best songs in their career outside of "Made In Japan". I'll get to the second part later on in this review but in the mean time it perfectly binds right into "White Whisper". This song is a fabulous song with really unique voice effects that alternate between the left and right ears and the song becomes a really dramatic but really uplifting and heavenly dance song.

The album closes on an epic scale with the best song on this entire album entitled "Forest Hymn". If you liked "Sahara Walk" then you must hear "Forest Hymn". Although the live version on their "Made In Japan" was phenomenal, the studio version on here rivals that version with a totally different beat altogether. Which ever version you like there's no denying this songs positive energy that radiates from its 6 minute length. If you have felt down or really low-spirited, then "Forest Hymn" will let the sun shine on you with the haunting Pygmy chants, the bright sunny melody and the energetic drum loop. I'm not sure who originally made the drum loop but I love it and the drum loop perfectly fits on this song. If there is anything wrong with this track, which I don't see, I would say that it gets rather repetitive from like the 3 minute mark onwards but that's just me. From the way I look at it, I can imagine this song as being like the soundtrack to the sun shining after a heavy thunderstorm or like a new era of happiness and joy begins after a dark era has ended. It's that good. All the remain tracks I passed up are just as great as the songs I pointed out but the ones I mentioned deserved the most attention.

This album is a must have purchase and let me tell you, you will very proud of owning this album. It is a really great thing that their self-titled debut album actually did at least go platinum but I don't understand why this album is no longer in print here in the United States. Amidst the negative nature of much of the mainstream schtuff, it is a major loss that a great and remarkable achievement in music isn't even available anymore. To me, the fact that this CD is no longer carried in the United States is one of the greatest crimes in the history of music. If you can find it used or wherever a copy is available, please buy it! You will fly to a place of beauty, fun, happiness, and positivity. We could really use some positive music nowadays and this album delivers just that! Many artists have blended African sounds with modern electronic beats but Deep Forest's debut remains the hallmark and stands out in so many ways from it's peers. If you love this album you must for their sophomore effort "Boheme" which is just as good even if it's totally different altogether.

A must for any listening library
Absolute must-have for a true music library. A solid, original, entrancing, and memorizing album.

Hooked from the first time i heard it!
I just wanted to say that a girl i dated summer of 1996 played this CD for me and from day 1, i thought it was great. The music along w/ the vocals flow very well making for very great and relaxing listening. From the samples i heard off Boheme and Music Detected, i wasn't impressed with the sound of the vocals but the music seemed nice. However, Comparsa sounds more like the original sound i enjoy so much. I believe World Mix looks to be a very good buy as well if you enjoy the original sound.

Fantastic CD!
This lost gem is just mind-blowingly beautiful and glowing iwth positive beauty. Breaking ground by incorporating sounds from Africa and blending them with modern dance New Age beats, the result is a very remote but very upbeat and uplifting classic that will stand for years to come.

My favorites are "Hunting", "Nightbird" and "Forest Hymn". I especially love the last song with it's slight Gospel-like undertone to it. The Ambient Mix of "Lullaby" is very pretty too.

Go out and find this if you can because from what I'm aware of, this CD isn't carried on U.S. retail markets as of at the time of writing this review. It's worth the hard search! I guarantee it! ... Read more

Album Details

With Over 17 Million Albums Sold Worldwide, Enigma Returns with their ThirdAlbum featuring 12 New Lush and Moody Tracks. ... Read more

Reviews (92)

Enigma's third chapter captivating as the last two.
The interesting thing about Enigma is that between their 3 albums, no 2 are different and yet they're the same. Frontman Michael Cretu has written another otherworldly album, but its differences between the others weakens it some. MCMXC a.D. gave us dance grooves, chants, and seductive French lyrics. How can we forget the "Prends-moi, je suis a toi" ("Take me, I'm yours") of "Mea Culpa"? Cross of Changes took that one, and added another element, more lyrics, harder drum loops, and more wisdom. Le Roi Est Mort.. changed its sound dramatically. It's still obviously Enigma, but it has hushed drum loops, a futuristic, aquatic sound, and noticable more lyrics. What weakens the album is it's lack of depth that the first two had. Songs like "Why..?" have been done before and add little to the album. Its two instrumental songs are breathtaking ("Shadows In Silence" and "Almost Full Moon"). "Morphing Thru Time" stands out as one of the best songs on the album, as does "The Roundabout", "Beyond The Invisible", and "TNT For The Brain". The album's intro, "Le Roi Est Mort, Vive Le Roi" is the perfect way to begin. I love the chorus and the way the female voice comes in. Definitely one of the best albums out there, but I still miss the sensuality and mystery of the first two.

Guys, the best is here!!!
It's the second review that I do about Enigma albums after "The cross of changes", and now my interest is taken from "Le roi est mort, vive le roi!". The songtitle is a good introduction to your acustic adventure. "Morphine thru time" makes you calm and its catchy melody covers everything like a velvet sheet. The same feelings are producted by "Beyond the invisible", which represents a main element of the album. This is followed by "Why!...". THIS IS THE BEST!!! It'll guide you to another universe, with sweet sounds but also with the power of the singer's voice. He shows his troubles and the questions he can't answer to. The next song must be heard in the dark, with no disturbs: the dull percussions and the pleasant melody of "Shadows in silence" are the right ways to leave our world for some minutes and find another one to land on. "The child in us" reminded me to people and places I knew in the past, and I know there's a spirit inside us that will never die. The 8th song is "T.N.T. for the brain". It goes a bit faster than the other songs, and you can hear how modern sounds and the words whispered from the singer make this one a great experience. All turns into relax with "Almost full moon", which follows Morphine thru time's rhythm, so you can find the first songs' calm...but just for a moment: "The roundabout" comes with dance passion and tribal drums. It's time again for a quiet song ("Prism of life")which has continuos voices in the background that go with a same kind of percussions. Finally, "Odyssey of the mind" closes the circle created by this incredible album. Once again Enigma shows, to the ones who care, that real music can be made only through real emotions.

Le roi est mort.......vive Enigma 3
Is absoluteley the best of all Enigma Records.

Check it and buy it...is really fantastic.....!
8 Years old but I think is always like a new one and a very
timeless Style.

The King is half undressed
Enigma's third adventure in sonic atmospherics is hindered by a formula that, while still interesting, sounds mired in an inability to move anywhere new. While great for fans and anyone who may have worn the first and second Enigma discs out, it doesn't add anything fresh to the vocabulary. Unlike "The Cross Of Changes," which took a few new sources for its material (the Native American rhythms and chants), "Le Roi est Mort..." feels more like a sophomore slump than the second album did.

The other drawback on this disc is that Michael Cretu has decided that he should do more of the singing. He comes off as a rougher voiced Phil Collins, which is not a good thing. "Why!" is a pretty good song nonetheless, but might have come across better in the more capable hands of Collins, or maybe a Peter Gabriel. Even with my reservations, someone must have thought the songs on "Le Roi Est Mort..." were pretty good, because four of these selections crossed to the "L.S.D." anthology.

Probably more than any of the four original Enigma albums, this is the most song heavy. There is definitely a push into the more sappy tendencies of New Age here ("Child In Us"), but if you're a fan of these sonic landscapes, then you'll probably dig the big boom of "TNT For The Brain." Other listeners can stick with the first two albums. ALSO: If you can find it, the original acetate slip card design of the earlier CD releases are an enhancement to "Le Roi Est Mort..."

Excellent atmospheric music
When Michael Cretu released Enigma's first album in 1990, I wasn't at all impressed. Somehow it's hit-song, "The Principles of Lust", turned me off with its poppy rhythm. I never intended to buy this record either, but by virtue of chance I got acquainted with it. I was so surprised! The music on "Le Roi Est Mort" is excellent, very deep and emotional, atmospheric and entertaining. Michael Cretu definitely stepped forward from his debut. His new-age rhythms are carfully interwoven with early Jean-Michel Jarre references, ethnic and world music influences, and Enigma's trademark gregorian chanting. But not only that, but also chanting in Latvian language and in Sanscrit are inserted into the sonic texture, and it's all blended together just perfectly.

What surprises me most about Enigma 3 is its dual-faced nature. If you feel like relaxing, you just put the CD on, and you have a pleasant listen that is very easy on your brain. But if you want to look deeper, you'll find so many layers of sound, that any demanding listener would be satisfied. This is a proof of quality. I'm also amazed at the strength of songwriting on Enigma 3, as it is a collection of equally strong tracks. I'm quite surprised at people complaining about Cretu's vocals. This is no opera, and Michael's singing blends with the music perfectly, never sounding odd or off-key. Female vocals are also good and suit the nature of the music.

I think this is one of those rare albums that has the potential to please anyone without sounding poppy or mainstream. Cretu proves his strength as a composer and performer. Very recommended. ... Read more

Amazon.com

In 1996, the Afro-Celt Sound System formed a sound clash that mixed Irish music, dance floor grooves, West African percussion, and the kora. While there were highlights, often with help from high profile singing guests like Sinead O'Connorand Peter Gabriel, the albums were fragmented. Now the members have shortened their name to the AfroCelts for their forth album, declaring that the Sound System isn't applicable because they've evolved into a more conventional and fully formed group. The change sounds radical, but it's really just a refinement in their working relationship and songwriting skill. Consequently, Seed holds together more strongly as an album. The songs are more consistently crafted and sonically rich here, with different voices and instruments coming to the fore, but never outshining the greater whole. Highlights include the blues slide guitar-driven title track, the wholly acoustic (which is a first!) and Irish jig-inspired "Ayob's Song/As You Were," and the Radiohead-influenced "All Remains." --Tad Hendrickson ... Read more

Reviews (30)

Great album!
This newest outing from the now Afro Celts is absolutely amazing!

The last album from ACSS was a truly awesome blend of techno, Celtic and African rhythms and had a slightl mainstream sound. This follow-up to that album leaves behind the excessive techno elements and is somewhat of a return to the more remote sounds of the first two albums.

My favorite songs on this album are "Nevermore", "Rise Above It", "Deep Channel" and "Green" which is simply an instrumental version of "Nevermore".

Afro Celts have once again delivered another amazing set of music. Buy it today!

Their best album yet?
Possibly so... The AfroCelts (formerly known as Afro Celt Sound System) have released their fourth album "Seed" and it does not disappoint. After bringing out the amazing "Further In Time" back in 2001 I really didn't think that the AfroCelts would be able to make another record as phenomenal as their last two but they've definitely proven themselves as great artists and I am very impressed. New CDs have been pouring in like crazy, as I'm quite addicted to music, but I haven't been able to listen to anything else lately and it only gets better every time I hear it.

Despite my love for them, at first I was a bit reluctant on buying their new album because so many people were using the word 'change' to describe their slight modification in sound, which terrified me since I already liked them the way that they were, but after hearing "Seed" all the way through I can feel rather than hear the difference as it's more organic and less commercialized (not that there's anything wrong with that). They're more of a group now and less of a studio act for they have brought in real musicians to perform live recordings of actual instruments, such as Jesse Cook on the flamenco guitar and Hossam Ramzy on the mazhar shaker and the Egyptian tabla.

That, worried hesitaters, is the difference everyone keeps referring to.

Although they took the sound system out of their name, there's still club-friendly dance beats melding in with African and Celtic melodies. And, of course, the beautiful, ethereal vocals are never far away and very much present. Their approach this time is simply a gentler flow with less of a high-energy drum presence that's much more soothing. And instead of using well-known names to help sell their records, the AfroCelts have shown that they are indeed a strong band and that they can stand out on their own two feet without having contributions from big-name artists like Sinead O Connor and Peter Gabriel.

Enjoyable
As A fan of a variety of mostly hard rock and metal bands, Afrocelts is a refreshing different CD. Each Song Has Texture and different sounds in it. This Album was much better than the previous Further In Time, which had a few flaws that made it not as good. The Song Ayub's Song is not one of my favorites. Also, This CD should have been longer I know there are some 10 minute songs, but it needs to have more material to it. This is why it got 4 stars.

Cyberia: Interesting. A more reflexive song. One of the better songs on this album. I like the vocals, but I wish they were in English....10/10
Seed: More upbeat and festive. Less to my liking than other songs, but still a good and song.8/10
Nevermore: Very good. Vocals are good. Upbeat and pensive at the same time. 10/10
The otherside: Not particulary memorable..um..8/10
Ajubs Song/As You Were: I don't like this song. It goes on for too long, really. 6/10
Rise: REally Part of Rise Above It, but still functions as a song on it's own 9/10
Rise Above It: One of the best songs on this album. Long, but doesn't drag on for too long like some songs (cough St. Anger)10/10
Deep Channel: amazing...feels like you are dipping into a pool of calm water 10/10
All Remains: MY Favorite, the intro is really cool 10/10
Green: Pretty Good, it's just nevermore intrumental 9/10

Best Song: All Remains
Worst Song: Ayubs Song/ As You Were
Song Which Needed English Vocals: Cyberia

New Age Getting a Little Old
For an act known for intriguing and innovative fusions of fresh sounds from around the world, Afro Celts (a.k.a. Afro Celt Sound System) are getting dangerously close to old-school new age. That is, predictable and unexciting. What we have here is less of the innovation and more of the Westernized "world music" (a wishy-washy term if ever there was one) that has been pushed by record companies and used in so-called exotic TV commercials for more than a decade. This is evident in the competent but unexceptional African vocal stylings in "Seed" and "The Other Side" here. Meanwhile, the authentic Irish folk sounds in "Ayub's Song/As You Were" and "Deep Channel" are so authentic as to verge on the stereotypical. About the only sources of excitement on this album are the brooding and ominous "Rise Above It" and the genuinely moving ballad "All Remains." But otherwise, here we see that Afro Celts are moving comfortably into new age sounds that are more concerned with competence and pleasantness, rather than innovation or experimentation. It's a pleasant and interesting listen, but just a little too comfortable overall. [~doomsdayer520~]

Raw
My first exposure to Afrocelts was Further in Time, which is an outstanding album. But just as much as that work seemed revolutionary in the scheme of my music experience, Seed is equally startling. It contains typical Afrocelt phrasings and vocalizations (those haunting and breathy accents uniquely Afrocelt), but definitely a reflection of growth. I can't decide which is better-the before or after-but perhaps this sort of distinction is unnecessary. Seed is just different. The title is an accurate reflection of the piece, which is much, much more organic than previous endeavors. The acoustic elements are much more predominant, and while the percussion is just as much a part of the music, it undergirds everything a very earthy and raw framework rather than the dense (almost musically opaque) beat of previous works. The cultural fusion is more prevalent too, especially with the intriguing duality of track 5. The vocals, as usual, are unique and varied from song to song. I suppose that's typical of this group and, in my opinion, one of the great artistic flavors in the music. While the electronic side is still very much a part of the overall effect it's more of a seasoning rather than a base. Different, in this case, is good. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Bodhran and kora? Talking drums and Uilleann pipes? Echoing ancient trade roots from a thousand years ago, Sound Magic reunites two seemingly disparate music traditions in a contemporary setting, reaching for a dance-oriented but spiritual hybrid that takes on a life of its own. Producer Simon Emmerson assembles some noteworthy artists including Ayub Ogada, Davy Spillane, Manu Katche, Caroline Lavelle, James McNally (of the Pogues), Iarla O Lionaird, and Masamba Diop to create evocative, clubby grooves that also incorporate samples and flavors from Armenia and the East. With its multilayered rich textures, Sound Magic grafts cultural respect and urban hipness for the global village of the '90s. --Derek Rath ... Read more

Reviews (49)

Future primitive
Well, over seven years since it's release and much has been said about this first release by A.C.S.S. They are everything good said and more. There are not enough superlatives to describe this hybrid sound that evokes Highlander images, a morning mist shrouded in a damp dew, revealing glistening mountain tops beyond the vibrant green forest or a red sky sunset, breaking through the clouds, highlighting the shimmering crytaline waters, taking the listener to far away lands, known and unknown. The music is magical, it has a feel of aborigines dancing with the elves in a hipnotic, capricious rhythmical motion , swirling and joining together to form an elongated celtic knot. The music is undescribable, it is like Enya to a pounding ancient rhythmic beat, Celtic harps weaving with programmed keyboards, uilleann pipes, various flutes combined with talking and programmed drums, fiddles, banjos, mandolins, cellos and violas thrashing with bongos, doudouk and kora precussion, it is old world meshing with technology, it is music for a new age. As suggested by others, if you are just getting into Afro Celt Sound System, start your listening experience with this first and most excellent release, then move in progression with the band. The music is as worthy now as then so do yourself a favor and buy this disc. Later put this disc on and travel within your mind to magical lands beyond, all within the confines of your home. The space between your ears will thank you.

Cairo Egypt on an Irish landscape
I was first introduced to Afro Celt Sound System when I bought Eleation 1 wnad it had Sure As Not part on it. The song captivated me like nothing in a long time. A blend of trance, Celtic and African instruments, WOW! Truly magic. The album title is perfect. It's pure magic. I never thouhgt of seamingly opposite kinds of music could blend so well together. I have gained a great deal of respect for the Real World Label. Almost evey song stands out on this CD with sure As Knot beig the shining star.

The version on Elevation Vol.1 compilation had just part one. The version on here is almost ten minutes long with two parts almost like two tracks in one. The second part is almost as captivating as part one. The second half has more African chants and even some cildren voices and is a bit faster and trancey. This is perfect evening music. If you like Petet Gabriels Passion, Passion Sources, or even Enya, this is a must have as well as AFSS other two albums. They are exquisit.

This CD is much more folky and is almost opposite to Further In Time which is very technoish. Very little of the techno sounds are present on this CD. If you want world music for the soul get this CD. It's SO worth it.

I don't think the review I wrote on here could do this album justice. It's so outstanding is a sheer work of art and talent.

Definately one of the best world music CDs ever made!

And they only get better with each album.

Ditto
Five stars to all four of the albums put out by these grand folks. I do not need to offer a description as other reviewers have done a perfect job; but if it's helpful to you to see an emphatic "ditto to that" as a review, then here it is.

This, along with Enya, is truly my above all, favorite music across the board. Beats all my other faves in every other music category.

A true merger of Celtic and African styles.
Imagine Irish jigs and reels powered by a heavy jungle beat, African jazz supported by Irish pipes, whistles and fiddles, songs of prayer combined with high-kicking dance tunes, delicate harp melodies with synthesized accents -- all linked together by driving African percussion and an electric rock sensibility. That's the Afro Celt Sound System, but it doesn't begin to cover their sound.

The Afro Celt Sound System isn't a band so much as a cooperative of musicians intrigued by an idea. United under the umbrella of Peter Gabriel's Real World label, nearly two dozen musicians added their personal touch to make the idea a reality.

The initial product of their joining is Volume 1: Sound Magic. It cannot be described as Celtic or African in nature; yet, both styles are evident in spades. Sound Magic is a true union of two completely dissimilar musical genres.

Excellent!
This is quite simply a highly essential album from an extremely unique group who fuse seamingly opposite cultures together: Celtic strings & African drums! This album started it all. The music is very traditional and has little of the electronic mayhem of their following albums. "Sure-As-Knot" is absolutely haunting and enchanting!

Although there isn't exactly any filler on here, I'm not so much into the final track but that's just because it doesn't quite rank up there with the others. Still, it's pretty good, just the others are better.

Although not exactly up there with latter albums, This CD is nonetheless a need! Go out and buy it! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Lots of traditional-music recordings thrive when they're at their purest, stripping away influence to revel in a core sound. The exact opposite is the case with the Afro Celt Sound System's sophomore effort, Release, which hits its highest plateaus when it's juiciest and pulpiest, throwing everything into the mix. Hailed for their cross-cultural toss-together of traditional West African and Celtic musics on an electronic backbone, the Afro Celts indulge their digital-age ability to throw African drum patterns behind Uilleann pipes and Irish tin whistle all with a club-ready pulse. Their debut and various appearances at World of Music, Arts, and Dance (WOMAD) festivals cemented their success at this mixological approach, and Release makes the clarity of the group's vision all the more astonishing. Perhaps it's what Irish violinist Martin Hayes has called the "lonesome touch," but the Celtic contribution often squares up as a yearning cry, contrasting vividly with the techno beats and West African drumming. --Andrew Bartlett ... Read more

Reviews (56)

Real Musicians playing real instruments and really singing!
Walked into a boutique out in Capitola, CA and ACSS:Release was playing. As soon as I got to a record store down in Carmel, both Vol 1:Sound Magic and Vol 2:Release were purchased and they have been regulars in my CD changer ever since. This harmonious blend of Celtic and African with everything else you can imagine has an accessible but eclectic feel that draws you in on several different levels. I think the reason that ACSS shines is that nothing is overdone. The unique blending of all of the styles represented is so well done that you don't have time to get bored with any one element. The percussion is spot on(no drum machines here!), and the lovely and well placed vocals add a nice touch to the great array of instruments employed. Like many of the other reviewers, I am partial to the pseudo-techno style of "Hypnotica", but the whole album is heavy duty. The oh-so lovely vocals on "Amber" just send me every time I hear it.

If you like this release, don't forget to check out "Shorelife" and "Mo-Di" by MOUTH MUSIC.

hypnotic, pulsating, and universal
This CD soars! I bought their first effort, Sound Magic,blind from Amazon based on customers' reviews and was blown away by the melding of Celtic ethereal with African heartbeat. Waiting for the follow up, I was fearful that the band might end up being be a one trick pony. This CD puts those fears to rest. Hypnotic, pulsating, and universal. At times, I'd almost swear that I hear sung Japanese and an alto didjeridoo blended in that digital beat. Most certainly this CD won't appeal to the Celtic purists out there, but that would be their loss. Hybrid vigor is strong vigor and this is as strong music gets. Both the vocal and instrumental versions of Release (It) rejoice in life and make me want to dance in celebration. If its spirit doesn't grab you, you'd better check your pulse. Guest vocalist Sinead O'Connor has never been more at home in a song. Dance DJ's get ready to sample. International..Beat...Dance...New Age...Old Age... .throw the labels away. Listen, move and be.

well, i love it
i first heard an afro celt song on the gangs of new york soundtrack. i fell in love with it and decided to buy a cd. i got release and i am so damn glad i did. "even im my dreams" is one of the best songs i've heard in a while. i play it whenever im feeling down or something, or just when i wanna hear something good. anyway, its a great cd.

Very good
I love this music and listen to it a lot. It love how it mixes different music styles together. This CD is my favorite of the 3. My skating coach has cut music for a skater off this CD and one of the other volumes. People from my skating and Dance class found it very inspirational as well. The only thing I wish they did differently on the CDs is provide a translation for the non-English parts. I enjoy them singing in the other languages, it is beautiful and it fits the music perfectly but it would be kind of nice to know what they are sing.

Give this one a listen.
This album, far from a retread of their previous release, Volume 1: Sound Magic, has a new infusion of pop and techno styles. Release isn't nearly as startling different as its predecessor, but at the same time it has more staying power and should gain the Afro Celt Sound System an even broader audience than it had before. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Michael Cretu, the man behind Enigma, formulates an intriguing symbiosis between New Age musicality, classical and world-music influences, and dance-club rhythms. Gregorian chants, Native American meditations, and the breathy musings of a French chanteuse have been incorporated into legendary dance-floor hits from his previous three albums. The leitmotif of his fourth album, The Screen Behind the Mirror, is the grandly ominous "O Fortuna" from Carl Orff's Carmina Burana. "O Fortuna" opens the set and appears repeatedly throughout the tracks, sometimes lurking in the background, sometimes storming into the forefront. This album marks Enigma's continued foray into the ambient New Age realm, as Cretu's efforts focus more and more on melding compatible styles of world music, while the tracks are mixed into a single continuum. There's a lot to chew on; bits and pieces of church bells, Middle Eastern singing, and native instrumentation from you-name-it fold into each other on a steady current of shuffling hip-hop rhythms and velvety synthesized melodies. Cretu lends vocals to several songs, and his voice stands somewhere between Peter Gabriel and Phil Collins (though it's not as good as either), tending to distract from the album's flow and mood, lending it more of a prog-rock feel at times that he probably intended. Albums like this continue to invoke the same question: Is this a beautiful, transcendent union of artificial and indigenous sounds or is it just a bunch of self-indulgent schlock?It can be answered either way with equal conviction. --Beth Massa ... Read more

Reviews (263)

Short, but amazing burst of New Age music.
"Screen Behind the Mirror" is Enigma's fourth wide-release United States album. It follows on the heels of the mega-hit "MCMXC A.D." and more minor hits "Cross of Changes" and "Le roi est mort, Vive le roi!". Enigma's trademark has been combining all forms of non-conventional modern music with ancient and tribal music to create a very eclectic sound that is both uplifting and haunting at once. "MCMXC A.D." was notable for its introduction of Gregorian monk chants into mainstream music on its blockbuster single "Sadeness". "Cross of Changes" continued the trend using the chants while also infusing tribal and Celtic sounds with the music. On "Cross...", the most spectacular of all Enigma songs was produced, "The Return to Innocence". Enigma continued to evolve its musical range on "Le Roi..." by producing an album that has almost a metaphysically spiritual feel to it (please note, I do not have the credentials, nor vocabulary, to properly describe their music in technical terms. So, I describe it as it feels).

"Screen Behind the Mirror" (which only has 4 stars instead of 5 due to its short run time) takes Enigma's musical evolution one step further. It employs the use of an orchestral method known as leit motif, which could best be described as using a particular musical theme to characterize and define a larger work. The most famous use of this technique was used for the musical scores of the "Star Wars" movies where composer John Williams defined different characters by specific musical tones. These tones were present in some for or another in every scene that character appeared in. In this album, Enigma uses composer Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana (O Fortuna)" for its leit motif. Elements of this amazing orchestral piece flow throughout the entire album, from combinations with the actual music on each track to the bridges between songs. "Gravity of Love" and "Modern Crusaders" provide early hints of what is to come with "O Fortuna". The true star of this album begins just prior to track #8 "Endless Quest" when an ominous hint of "O Fortuna" is played just prior to the start of track #8. It then flows into "Endless Quest", which is a slow, deliberate set piece that builds just like the scenes in the movie before its climax. It builds right until a sudden stop and leap into "Camera Obscura", which is a shocking, explosive track of that increases the pulse of the music and the listener and it combines thumping drumbeats with soaring guitars and the rousing finale of "O Fortuna" in such a way that the listener can almost imagine Valkyries descending from the sky. It is truly an amazing musical piece.

Enigma Must Be Heard
For me, Enigma's fourth album, "The Screen Behind The Mirror," released at the beginning of 2000, was the first GREAT album released in the New Millenium (okay, so the New Millenium really began in 2001, but why not cheat a little?). Once again, Enigma mastermind Michael Cretu turns in a glorious mix of ambient sounds, world music, opera samples, choir voices, slammin' beats, and keyboard-heavy progressive rock. "The Screen Behind The Mirror" is also a slight improvement over it's predecessor, the laid-back "Le Roi Est Mort, Vive Le Roi" (though I like that album just fine). This is a tougher-sounding Enigma, and the tunes definitely contain a lot of punch. Many brilliant tracks on this one, including "Push The Limits," "Gravity Of Love" (featuring a very clever sample of Orff's "Carmina Burana' and sung by Olive's Ruth-Ann), the powerful "Modern Crusaders," the hypnotic title instrumental & "Endless Quest," and the memorable final song "Silence Must Be Heard" (with another great vocal by Ruth-Ann). Fabulous production & sound, terrific instrumental work by Cretu & guitarist Jens Gad, and strong vocals by Ruth-Ann, Andru Donalds and Cretu, and sultry guest vocals by Sandra Cretu and Elisabeth Houghton. Enigma's "The Screen Behind The Mirror" is another sparkling album from this brilliant studio group.

Awesome!
I think this is one of, if not the best, album by Enigma. The songs have such a smooth flow, that if you start with the first you cannot stop until "Silence must be heard" finishes! Good job Michael!

Enigma's Bombastic Fourth
Egads...has "O Fortuna" not been sampled enough already? Appears not, as Enigma tosses it in his fourth album to the point of distraction. This is the least ingenuitive of the Enigma albums, and his most obvious. I'll admit, "Push The Limits" and "Modern Crusaders" are the best songs here, but if you have the first three Enigma CD's you have them all.

I have often thought Enigma to be a later day Alan Parsons, trying to make his formula fit certain ideas and themes. And like Parsons, once he got past "Eve," the formula began to wear thin. The same can be said about "The Screen Behind The Mirror." You like the formula. you'll like the album. But to me, it's just Enigma's craftsmanship on display this time. Without heart, craftsmanship is just learning to use the tools, and without any discernable effect.

The Heart is the Engine of Enigma..
Being the fourth album from the legendary musical mastermind Michael Cretu, it was also at the time the most different (now his fifth album voyageur stands out as the most individual). I consider this album and Le Roi Est Mort, Vive Le Roi to be his (Michael Cretu) best album. The amazon editorial review said it all. Of the two questions posed at the end of her review, i must say that Enigma's music is a beautiful union between artificial and indigenous sound. This album is beautiful. Tracks that stand out the most are "Between Mind and Heart" "Modern Crusaders" "Gravity of Love" and the second track, which i forgot the name of. Buy this album! ... <