Review by Denis on June 22, 2003.

Saltatio Mortis is not only a strange name, but also a special band. But since the strange, unknown or weird is my domain of exploration on planet earth, I shall try to entice you into discovering what good surprises are hidden under the cover of "Das Zweite Gesicht."

To start, the musicians. Seven in total, each with long European names like Falk Irmenfried von Hasen-Mummelstein! They are all multi-instrumentalists, covering your usual metal kit plus modern day technologies such as programming and keys. On top of that, there is the use of the oboe, flute, harp, davul, darabuka, horn and last but not least, bagpipe!

I always liked the bands under Napalm Records wing. They are excellent musicians and composers with innovative ideas and approaches. Saltatio Mortis fall into this category even if it's not really metal. I would rather call their music modern folkloric goth-rock. Modern it is, for it has a somewhat techno sound with lots of keyboards and electronic percussions. With all the traditional instruments involved, I think it is more than obvious that a certain folk edge would be present even if the bagpipe have a more "modern" feel and are being used like a lead guitar most of the time. The gothic-rock is the omnipresent character being carried by the ambiance, even more so with the clean nasal voice of Alea Der Bescheidene.

Bottom Line: A great sounding new musical experience.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 8
Atmosphere: 8
Originality: 8
Production: 9
Overall: 8

Rating: 8.2 out of 10