I’ve been on a huge Lord of the Rings/ Tolkien kick recently and have been seeking out some music to satiate my need, enter Swedish duo Morcaint.

Mornië Utúlië is the follow-up to last year’s Ellesar EP, and the duo of Ulvtyr and main composer Heruhim certainly know their way around Tolkein-themed atmospheric and melancholic black metal. As per the press release: “The opening track captures the moment of Frodo’s voyage into Valinor, a passage into the West. The following two songs are told from the perspective of Galadriel, blending her ancient wisdom and ethereal melancholy with atmospheric darkness and evocative melodies. The final track features a company of elves singing about Varda, adding a majestic conclusion to the EP”.

That said, Mornië Utúlië isn’t the expected triumphant bombastic Summoning sound but more early Alcest in this 4-track 23-minute little gem. The shrill, tinny riffs and crystalline keys with vocals that deliver rasps and choral, somber cleans imbue the Eldar departing for Valinor. It’s glittery, wispy, shimmery, and delicately magical with little bite or menace.

“A Pale Moon Rises” starts with Gandalf stating“It is time, Frodo“, and the somber shrill riff kicks in with Alcest-ian despondency, matching the gravitas of the film’s moment. The second track, “Mornië Utúlië”  and the third track, “Summons Dire” ( the Epslongest track at 8 minutes) match their names sake Galadriel, with beautiful, slender melodies and just a hint of restrained power.

Instrumental closer “Gilthoniel” initially sways with elvish majesty, before a militant march and closing fadeout of choirs sending the EP off to the undying lands.

I’m hopeful for a full-length album soon, and with slightly fuller, richer production, this duo has the promise to be an epic Tolkien metal force.

[Visit the band's website]

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