Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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21 of 22 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
"Hear the gears of evolution grinding", June 13, 2004
The Cruxshadows have been around for a little while, and have thus had time to perfect and hone their musical talent. This newest release shows off how they've evolved as a band, as well as how creative they can be. The Cruxshadows really have revolutionized the trip-hop genre by taking this musical style and molding it to be something entirely their own. They have taken an older, very characteristically 80's sound and added sumptuous layers that reek of eclecticism, but in a good way! Omnipresent throughout Ethernaut are lushly rich textures complemented by outstanding lyrics and vocals. Aside from the characteristically "trip-hop"/EBM electronic and highly danceable beats, Ethernaut is sprinkled with the gorgeous sounds of violins and guitars. Though this combination seems like it would clash caustically, the Cruxshadows pull it all together quite well into a most delectable treat for the receptive ear. A lot of the creative talent found in this group stems from Rogue (how very fitting a name for a group such as this), the lead singer/songwriter. His vocals tend to straddle the line between spoken word and singing, and his vocals are backed by the amazing, soaring vocals of both Rachel and Stacey. The lyrics on this album, as tend to be distinctive throughout most of the Cruxshadows works, are the Egyptian/Roman mythology themes. For example, this album covers the battle of Troy. Rogue does an outstanding job of mixing emotional, heart-wrenching lyrics along with history and mythology into a rather enticing and accessible array of danceable, artistic music. Though this group might not appeal to every fan of trip-hop, or industrial/gothic music because of the fact that they are a slightly different, they do have a lot to offer to those willing to listen. Indeed, some might consider this style of music to be an acquired taste. However, the Cruxshadows do a wonderful job of making trip-hop/industrial/EBM/darkwave (as they really do overlap into all of these genres at various points) music more accessible. If you are new to the genre, or to the Cruxshadows, then this (and/or "Mystery of the Whisper") is a great place to start! This is a band that only continues to get better and better!
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10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Much More than a CD, January 15, 2004
This album is so much more than just a CD. It is an exploration in history, mythology, philosophy, religion, and art, all combined to make a mind-blowing experience! The story of the Trojan War, with exciting twists and completely new interpretations and unique applications to religious and philosophical thought... Regardless of what you usually consider to be your favorite musical genre, this CD powerfully breaks through all boundaries to combine elements of electronic, dance, rock, classical, experiemental, folk, and many other kinds of music, to create a sound that is entirely unique and way better than anything else out there! The evolution of The Cruxshadows' sound is an incredible phenomena -- something to be treasured and studied.... I highly recommend this CD for any fans of intelligent and unique art. ...And it's great to dance to. :-)
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9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
They keep getting better.., December 28, 2003
This was the most gratifying purchase I have made this year! I have been a fan of The CrüxShadows for a few years now, and I find some of the songs on this album will haunt me until I listen to them one more time. There are only 12 tracks listed on the cover, but there are actually 15 musical scores and four blank tracks- not 100% sure of the reason for this, but i have heard mention of 'hidden' tracks [not very well hidden]. Awesome tracks on this album are 'Waiting to Leave', 'Flames', 'Cassandra' and 'Nothing Left But Me'. Another track entitled 'German Esoterica' is only 1:30 long [with an additional 30 seconds of silence at the beginning] is also a favorite, but it is way too short; reminds me a lot of the game 'Startopia' There are some samples on http://www.cruxshadows.com/ethernaut.html.
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by The Crüxshadows 
