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Ataraxia - Centaurea | Review

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Ataraxia - Centaurea

May 2024

The Circle Music

Ataraxia's "Centaurea" marks the second chapter in their latest trilogy, following the magnificent "Pomegranate."

*** words by Nick "Dr. D." Chanakoulas

While the previous album referenced the four elements, this one transports the listener to an imaginary island beyond the columns of time, still thriving in a golden age. According to the band, this mythical realm pulses with vibrant energy, where heroes, maidens, priestesses, and bards embody courage, hospitality, and profound spiritual values. The next and final part will explore the Elysian Fields.

Even from the cover, you know you will delve into magical musical landscapes. The little child on the front radiates beauty and purity, mirroring the album's profound themes. Ataraxia continues to maintain their status as innovative by blending the sacred and the profane, the ancient and the contemporary. Their sound is a mosaic of medieval, Celtic, baroque, opera, folk, and oriental music with many references to the '80s darkwave and avant-garde. While the first part of the trilogy was a little bit progressive, "Centaurea" is more epic and ritualistic.

Francesca Nicoli's collaboration with Mara Paltrinieri creates evocative lyrics by blending ancient and modern languages. The vocal performance of Francesca is again breathtaking, while the backing vocals of Vittorio and Giovanni might remind you of Dead Can Dance. However, Ataraxia always maintains their unique sound with a more classical and baroque direction. Tracks like "Aetas Aurea" and "Nox Incubat" amaze the listener with their quality and theatrical style.

Some fans might still long for the more goth/dark references of their earlier works. However, even though those were truly gems, Ataraxia, especially from the 2000s onward, offers an enthralling experience, balancing their operatic neoclassical style with fresh, innovative elements. Personally, I love this warmer approach.

Of course, the references to Greek mythology and culture are present once again, which makes one wonder why Ataraxia never became more popular in our country. The only explanation is that their music is not for easy listening. They almost require a ritualistic approach, where you have to light candles, close your eyes, and travel into magical and mythological destinations.

It is very refreshing to still see musicians who have a very specific artistic vision, outside of the various trends. Ataraxia’s masterful blend of styles and eras makes "Centaurea" a truly unforgettable voyage that all fans of neofolk should appreciate.

Album credits:

Francesca Nicoli - vocals

Vittorio Vandelli - classical, acoustic and electric guitars; programming; timpani; back vocals

Giovanni Pagliari - keyboards; programming; back vocals

Guest musician:

Totem Bara - cello in Galen, Nox Incubat, Viriditas

Gregorio Bellodi - uilleann pipes in track 1 of the CD “The Source”

All music by ATARAXIA

lyrics by Francesca Nicoli and Mara Paltrinieri

Recorded, mixed, mastered by Vittorio Vandelli between September 2023 and January 2024

Artwork concept and lay-out by Nicolas Ramain