Originally released in 1986 in very limited numbers, this much sought after CD by esoteric alchemists and masters of ritualistic soundscapes, Ain Soph, has been re-issued by the French label Athanor. Coming complete with a lavishly printed 40 page CD sized booklet with essays exploring the magickal and ritualistic elements that formed the very foundations of the early incarnations of this now infamous and deeply influential group. Also included in the booklet is an in-depth discography spanning the whole carrier of Ain Soph, including a complete collection of compilations, LPs and 7”’s they have released. The whole set has skillfully been put together in a way that mirrors the occult tracts or occult guidance it contains and this compliments the music contained on the disc perfectly. Since their self-titled release CD ‘Ain Soph’ in 1990 the band’s sound has progressed into more musical territories, however their earlier work is still very much based on ritualistic work and soundtracks to accompany such acts and this is where we find the styling of ‘Ars Regia’. Consisting of 6 tracks of dark and somber music, it changes form from soundtrack-esque dark ambient compositions to ritualistic readings, to hypnotically minimalist electronic works. Ain Soph’s records have depth and purpose that transcends what the normal expectations of music should be and instead offers up a diverse and complex set of recordings that are produced to assist the more magickal elements of ritualistic practice, thus making ‘Ars Regia’ a deeply interesting release to those who tread this path. This being said, what ‘Ain Soph’ have also managed to do with this and their other releases of ritual origin is produce a wonderfully deep and layered, dark ambient styled set of recordings that can be appreciated by those who have an interest purely in the music itself. ‘Ars Regia’ is an interesting release in both musical and ritualistic terms and offers up an important in-sight into one of today’s most aloof and mysterious post-industrial groups. ~ A Heathen Harvest Review
$23.00
