| Reviews for Alcest's Le Secret |
| Le Secret. - 87% |
| Written by Narath
on June 2nd, 2008
|
| A few months back I got hold of Neige's first full-length release with Alcest, "Souvenirs D'un Autre Monde", it was (and still is) one of the most beautiful records I had ever heard. Only after month and months of listening I decided I'd get another Alcest release. After reading many reviews on his other three release that I was yet to hear, Le Secret seemed to stand out from the pack, many reviews praised this two song EP as one of the best in the genre. I had to hear this for myself. At first, honestly, I was less than impressed. Like the naive fool that I was, I was only looking forward the heavenly, high end production. As soon as I heard the cheap, grittiness of the album, I had made a big deal of it - ignoring the music. Weeks went passed, the album came on once again - and this time... wow. When you look pass the production value, this is exactly what Alcest is - beautiful riffs, that just float into one another; happy and heavenly, yet depressive and melancholic - spiritual and dreamy, yet dark and haunting. Everything about this release contrasts another aspect of it, it plays with the emotions, unlike anything else. Unfortunately, I ignored all of this during my first listen! The first song on the EP, Le Secret, is the best of the two, in my opinion anyway. It begins with a cheap nature soundscape; the sound of a creek flowing, birds chirping in the background etc. Before long a clean guitar comes in with a classic Alcest riff; beautiful, heavenly, repetitive. It's odd hearing the guitar for the first time, especially to someone who's only heard 'Suviners...', all the clean parts are played on an acoustic, not a clean guitar - this is probably the main reason I disliked this album at the beginning, to be honest. The riff is played upwards of three and a half minutes, before the first real taste on Le Secret comes; a strong electric riff comes in, and yes - this is Alcest, the simple, yet unusual drum patterns which accompany the beautifully harsh distorted guitar. After a small pause where rhythm guitar graces our ears, the song is back infull swing, and this is where we are introduced to Neige's very... odd vocals. Angel-like, almost hummed, muffled vocals - Neige almost sounds like a pigeon, to a lesser extent of Nazgul's vocalist 'Zakrathor'. Towards the end of the song we have somewhat of a close to the introduction of the song, the clean guitar, the nature sound scape, the birds in the background and all of that. Although this time it is accompanied by whispering, feminine vocals. A very calm way to ease out of a great song, it doesn't ruin it by coming to a sudden halt. Before you know it, you've drifted into the next song, simply entitled Elevation. We're graced with light keys, which - as you'd expect, resemble 'Elevation', very calm, creating the perfect, relaxed environment. Without any build up, without and hint towards it, we're interrupted with a loud, gritty distorted guitar. This is where Neige's black metal roots come into play. The riff is harsh, something you'd expect to find in one of his other project, most suitably 'Mortifera'. In comparison to the last song, the vocals are a complete opposite - screeching, black metal vocals; which, once again, resembling Mortifera. There's nothing remotely beautiful about this song, this is what black metal should be; ugly. I can't see how this is an Alcest song, but I enjoy it. It's weird when you think about it; this is the same song which had progressed from those uplifting, beautiful keys we heard at the start - now, we're in the midst of harsh French black metal. I see this album as Neige expressing his emotions; on the one hand, we have 'Le Secret', very calm, collected and just beautiful. On the other hand we have 'Elevation', which I see as a release of all Neige's built up emotions. They all just come out in the riffs, the vocals, the drums - it's an overall aggressive song, with some depressive elements, much more suited for one of his many other black metal projects. Get this album, I recommend it. |
| Ridiculously overrated. - 38% |
| Written by duncang
on July 31st, 2007
|
| 'Le Secret'. Well, now that Neige is becoming something of a cult hero in the metal community, this EP isn’t much of a secret anymore. Left, right and centre I see people singing his praises, mostly because of ‘Le Secret’ and his leaked full length ‘Souvenirs D'un Autre Monde’ (which I, unlike most, will be waiting to buy). I honestly can’t see what all the fuss is about. The melodies are nice, sure, but not at all (to quote other some other reviews) “otherworldly” or “beautiful”. There are a fair few times on this album when the guitars are actually out of tune, which is fine (to a degree) for a regular black metal blastfest, but no, Alcest clearly ‘surpasses the boundaries of black metal and music as a whole to make something that even God was be envious of’. It’s really, really not true. The only thing that makes ‘Le Secret’ remotely black metal is the drums, which plod along at a half-time blastbeat that gets old after about 4 bars. There are a few nice touches here and there but mostly Neige is going with standard fare atmospheric BM drumming, which only seems remotely original because of the music that accompanies it (though there are sections of ‘Le Secret’ where he thinks he’s drumming for an indie band). The guitar tone is awful, and the music they play is unbelievably cliché. The songs are littered with ‘deep and meaningful’ acoustic passages which sound quite good. The problem is that they make absolutely no sense structurally. The songs have absolutely no flow because each distorted (or, at a stretch, ‘black metal’) passage begins and ends with portions of silence, ambient drivel and some clean guitar. The entire EP is just switching between major 3rds, 4ths and 5ths, with (when he’s feeling adventurous) a minor 7th every now and again. It’s crazy because these kinds of melodies are seen in pop music all the time, yet, just because they’re played with terrible distortion and tremolo picking; it means that ‘Le Secret’ is revolutionary. Don’t think that I’m just dumping on this album here, because it does have some good qualities. The vocals are top notch on both tracks. The first track, ‘Le Secret’ is sung using female clean vocals, something which is again considered unique and original by all of the Neige fanclub, however the idea has been explored many times before. Her delivery is the one aspect that really gives off the atmosphere that Neige was going for. The second, ‘Elevation’ is screamed by Neige, and, as always, his vocals are great. Full of anguish and passion, he really seems to mean what he’s singing about (though the lyrics for ‘Elevation’ were not even written by him). The bass is also handled well, despite the fact that all that is played is root notes. This only works because the guitar is always playing the root along with alternating notes over it, so the bass kind of levels out the music and gives it a nice balance. I think the one thing that really disappoints me about Alcest (especially considering the magnificence of his other similar project, Amesoeurs) is the lack of direction. Both the songs contain around 3 musical ideas, but they’re both stretched out to lengths of over 10 minutes. Perhaps I’m meant to be relaxed by the ambience, but when I’m being told that this is a black metal album, it really doesn’t work. The production has very little low-end, which is absolutely vital for any kind of atmosphere. I mean, listen to the (incredibly drawn out) 3 minute intro to ‘Elevation’. It’s basically Neige trying to be Brian Eno, but it does nothing for me. The only way it really works in my opinion is when the main portion of the song returns to this melody. Overall, the album is dull, pretentious and generally average. There are a couple of promising parts but the arrangement of ‘Le Secret’ is pathetic. I cannot understand why so many people adore this release, its atmosphere would be wonderful if it was pulled off correctly, but it isn’t. Knowing the brilliance of Amesoeurs, this EP just pales immensely in comparison. The samples I have heard from the Alcest full-length however are incredible and I hope to see that Neige will indeed compress his ideas into coherent and flowing pieces of music. He has not done so on ‘Le Secret’. Originally written for http://www.heavymetalsociety.org |
| Dark and beautiful, ethereal and spiritual - 80% |
| Written by NausikaDalazBlindaz
on February 3rd, 2007
|
| It may not be the best short black metal record I’ve come across but it’s sure the most gorgeous and melodious even with the full-on barrage of buzzing steely black metal guitar on the two tracks. The first piece, “Le Secret”, begins with field recordings of chirping birds and a soft flowing acoustic guitar melody which are soon swept aside by the harsh vibrato guitar storms. The transition is not as abrupt as suggested here as the music is soon leavened with clean and subdued female vocals that are calm, unemotional and soothing. The lyrics paint a picture of a charming rustic garden scene which holds a secret that may not be as reassuring as the music suggests. Usually I’m wary of combinations of clean vocals with harsh minimal black metal fuzz as the contrast between the two can be so great that neither benefits much (I used to have a CD by the Danish band Make A Change … Kill Yourself that featured sweet female vocals with doomy harsh black metal which didn’t quite match) but Alcest succeeds here as the actual black metal is melodic, the singing is not very up-front and is soft, and the ambience of the recording is dreamy and not very clear. “Elevation”, the second track, uses more anguished screaming black metal vocals yet there is very little hostility, aggression or other negative emotions usually found in black metal in this song. The drumming and the riffs tend to suggest a triump or celebration of some sort, maybe release from a lower, more dreary existence into a higher, freer world. The music has the feel of late seventies / early eighties new wave music. Towards the end the guitars and the technical drumming become loftier and the singing is more high-pitched as though the musicians are being carried away by a force unleashed by the music. The lyrics turn out to be a poem by Charles Baudelaire, the famous nineteenth century French poet who knew a thing or two about being an outsider and the wretchedness of existence, and in this black metal context the poem celebrates escape into a better world through death. It’s interesting that the French Romantic outsider sub-culture of the 1800s has found a new resonance through black metal and Alcest has brought out a dark beauty and a strangely ethereal, even spiritual quality from this potent combination. A beautiful and flowing dark music portraying the release of the soul and the ecstasy of such release is this CD’s hallmark. The minimalist black metal style prevents sentimentality from tainting the nature-themed lyrics and ideas, and introduces a celebratory, positive aspect which is quite unusual for this kind of music. The Romantic elements temper the harsher aspects of the music and open it up to new ideas and emotions. Even the death-bed singing in “Elevation” seems to express a kind of joy. The level of musicianship is high and consistent with spot-on drumming and a remarkable wobbling yet disciplined guitar solo on “Elevation”. The sleeve photos of trees, water and children (representing innocence), all with misty outlines, evoke a nostalgia for a time when people lived in harmony with Nature and life was simpler and less stressful and miserable than it is today, and agree with the themes of the music. |
| Almost overwhelmingly beautiful. - 100% |
| Written by tomservo
on November 13th, 2006
|
| In a way, it's a shame that this EP is less than half an hour long. But, when listening to it on repeat for hours, it almost feels right that it shouldn't be any longer. The experience seems extremely well done in its delivery, and any longer or shorter might've changed that feeling. However, should Alcest release a full length album in the future, I'm certain that its length will also suffice to satisfy the listener's experience as well. This is, in a way, like nothing I've ever heard before in black metal. It certainly still carries much of the traditional musical styles of black metal such as the atmospheric production, blast beats, tremolo picking, and harsh, wailing screams. However underneath the surface it feels much more than that. The first track alone defies black metal traditions in so many ways, I don't know if I've even noticed them all yet. The most prominent one being the vocals, which are clean female almost speaking vocals. Very down cast and melancholic, however when surrounded by the melodic chaos of the music, it almost sounds joyful. The lyrics translate to something that really feels neither, but more of a general observation of peaceful surroundings. All this alone, is not necessarily innovative, however the juxtaposition of the vocals with the music is one of those rare and wonderful moments where I just can't help but realize that black metal is probably far from dead, or boring. The second track uses words from a Charles Baudelaire poem. Musically and lyrically this track is almost celebratory. The melodies that the lead guitar weave throughout the entire song are incredibly beautiful. They seem to give wings to the typical agonized wailing vocals in the black metal style. However, instead of feeling agonized, the vocals seem to rise above everything else and intensify the beautiful things around us. As the closing riffs fade out of track 2, my brain craves more, and I will continue to listen to this on repeat for a very long time The chaotic and dense wall of noise that black metal produces can also be one of the most beautiful styles of music, and this EP exudes that from beginning to end. "Beyond the vast sorrows and all the vexations That weigh upon our lives and obscure our vision Happy is he who can with his vigorous wing Soar up towards those fields luminous and serene" |
| Le Secret. - 96% |
| Written by Perplexed_Sjel
on March 13th, 2006
|
| As already stated, this may be the best EP release of 2005. However short this EP may be, it's still brilliant. It contains two songs, which together last just over 27 minutes. One can only hope that Alcest release their debut full-length some time soon. First, Le Secret. This song opens with beautiful melody and gradually builds up into something quite astonishing. As soon as i heard the opening to this song i could instantly tell i'd come to adore it. The vocals are indeed clean, but fit accordingly to the track. There is a slightly romantic feel to the music and the vocals. Production is clear, drumming is fairly fast and clean and notably the atmosphere is perfect. Good atmosphere can make a song brilliant when it comes to Black Metal. Second, Elevation. Again, this opens with beautiful melody and a tranquil setting. To me it sounds fairly operatic and certainly portrays melancholy and sombre feelings ... Which is fairly odd because i find this EP in general to be quite uplifting. This song is a fine example of how Black Metal should be done. Vocals are harsher on this song than the previous, but again they fit the track accordingly. The vocals aren't overbearing on this release. I find that vocals can usually be a huge let down and dominate the music, but not in this case. Drumming is again fast and inch perfect. The guitar riffs shift perfectly from fast to slow and melancholic. As someone pointed out previously, this song contains one of the greatest Black Metal solos ever to be heard. Production is crystal clear and highly atmospheric. Each instrument is easily distinguishable from the next. In conclusion, this is an EP which MUST be heard by every Black Metal fan across the globe. |
| Amazing - 99% |
| Written by Nocturnal_Art
on February 7th, 2006
|
| We're in the woods, with a crystal clear stream passing through, the birds singing their songs, songs of happiness. The song "Le Secret" now begins, what sweet melodies are these, very relaxing, dramatic. When did Novembers Doom move to France? The rhythm goes on for 3 minutes, the drums are hit very precisely, the cymbals making small noise. You begin to daydream, you see a future, your passing the small stream as you look around at your surroundings. The tall pines, the sun barely passes through, but it's to be felt. Now, the guitar lets it's full force out, your spinning around, your sorrow melting away, the sun hits your face, a sigh is release. The guitar player really did an amazing job catching emotions like no other, but not dark like your used to hearing, but with a sense of relieve. Sounding so perfect, like if he only picked up the guitar when he felt it was the right mood to finish the song, very thought out. The guitar sounds extorted, but clear enough for you to absorb it's strength. The drummer now is releasing more energy into his playing, as if he was hitting his pain away. Sometimes his playing just goes to being wild, but then returning back on track. Same can be said for someone's life. It all sounds as if hope has return, a smile has come back to you, the world meaning nothing. Now, we have the vocals come into place, they are clean, no raspy, everyday black metal vocals, but very surprising. He begins to sing, if you may call it that. His voice is strong, but also weak, like singing for a death. It all sounds so romantic as displayed in literature as in love. French is one of the most romantic languages in the world, fitting this style so well. It all fades to how the song once started, the same rhythm for another few minutes, awesome way to end the song. This time you have whispers ending the song. Just an amazing track overall. The ambient in "Elévation" is like nothing you heard before. How do these guys do it? This is what I call morning ambient, where you sit on the patio early in the morning to watch the sky change colors as it goes up. Forget about what is going to come during the day, nothing matters, just take what it is now, beautiful. It makes you sad, but also cheerful. A very strong peace of ambient. Now, time to wake up. The metal comes pouring in, guitars still strong and pulling in the emotions. You can tell the band really worked on these tracks. "Elévation" still brings to you that same vibe that "Le Secret" did. It doesn't lose you like other albums have by bringing in totally different songs together. The vocals in this track have a whole different apprach, screams. Yet, not changing that feeling of the first track, it fits this song very much. The first song was supposed to be more on the soft side and this one on the more aggressive, pissed off end. A very pleasant release, can't wait for a full-length. |
| The Best of '05? Just maybe.. - 99% |
| Written by WolfStar
on May 17th, 2005
|
| Wow... That was the first words out of my mouth when Elevation rumbled to a close.. Rarely ever would I rate a release so high or praise it as I could do with this one. Alcest have created something otherworldly in Le Secret. Another reviewer compared them to Drudkh with their melancholy yet fast riffs and rather lengthy songs. I agree with this except for one thing: Alcest do it a hell of a lot better on Le Secret than Drudkh on any of their releases. Don't get me wrong though, Drudkh are an amazing band, yet the amount of emotion packed into this (far too) short EP is unmatched in any release I've had the pleasure to hear. The first song, Le Secret, features a clean guitar intro which really sets the tone for what I found the biggest suprise on this release: clean vocals. Yes, the first song features only clean singing, and a perfect fit it is. The second and final track, Elevation, features harsh vocals and yet another suprise (for me anyway): towards the end of the song the guitars fade out a bit and seconds later your hit with one of the best guitar solos ever played in a black metal song, an absolutely outstanding finish to the song and the EP. Of course this isn't the end of the song, but it sets up the end in a way that nothing else imaginable could. I can't really describe this release much more than that.. All I can say though is get yourself a copy of this EP any way you can. It's well worth the trouble finding it. A brilliant piece of art that deserves all the praise it can get. It will be hard to find a better release this year...In my opinion of course. Once again, a French band has proven they have mastered the art of black metal in a way no other country or band possible could. Bravo. |
| A Step Forward, While Keeping their Roots... - 86% |
| Written by KayTeeBee
on April 27th, 2005
|
| After a big 4 years of absence, Alcest returns with a new 2 song EP which lasts 27 minutes in total. Their previous demo was an extremely raw and cold minimalist black metal demo. While this one still pays "homage" to their roots, the sound has evolved. This is still very raw, but they've managed to fit even more melancholic riffs a la Drudkh. After listening many times the closest band this EP comes too is probably Drudkh, minus the accoustics. The first song starts with 3 minutes of pure clean guitar to set the tone for the song, and after about 3 minutes the riffs start. Very fast riffs full of sadness and depression. The songs are very long, yet they never get repetitive at all, because having very repetitive riffs is part of giving the feelings to the listener (like Drudkh). The second song, Elevation, starts off with some very relaxing keys, and the song kicks off at about 3 minutes. Same type of song here, except the riffs are more varied and it features more technical drumming. More of a "nature" song, this one, with clean breaks throughout the song. Overall this is an excellent return EP, and I can't to hear more Alcest stuff. |
| Best ever, no secret - 99% |
| Written by Incision
on April 17th, 2005
|
| This MCD is beautiful, my opinion says its easily the best MCD ever released. For those who love the romantic style of French Blackmetal such as Celestia and Mortifera, you will have romance with this MCD for sure.. The Production is crystal clear unlike their demo, which was fairly low production (pretty much the way BM should be In my opinion) And the Vocals are superb, they match the production well, the first song has sort of atmospheric choir vocals, but very melancholic. The Drumming is fast and clean, and has very lovable beat patterns, Neige is a great Drummer i must say, this MCD has the best drumming of any other French BM release. Guitar Riffs are pretty much everything in Blackmetal, and this release has some of the most BEAUTIFUL riffs ive ever heard, its the guitar riffs and smooth Bass patterns that make this MCD the best ever. This is a great MCD i advise you to g et your hands on it in anyway you can! |