Winds - Of Entity and Mind

(Originally published in Chronicles of Chaos in 2001)

Andy Winter is the brain behind this new band -- or should we say project -- featuring, among others, August and Hellhammer from Arcturus. Arcturus is a logical comparison. Winds have much of the same sound and production as _Aspera Hiems Symfonia_ [CoC #12], but the music is far less aggressive and more leaned towards classical music than black metal. Grand piano arrangements and trademark August guitar solos are accompanied by some solid riffs and vocals courtesy of Eric Si.

_Of Entity and Mind_ is an MCD, heralding what is to come. It does a decent job at that, because this certainly is interesting music. With a fresher, less synthetic sound and some more progressive and energetic elements, this concept would be close to perfect. The musicians certainly prove that they are capable. However, without some more variation and bite, the coming album might become a little dull. It can go either way; I choose to be optimistic.

Original score: 7.5/10. 3.5/5 is maybe a bit strong, but I'll let it stand.