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 Saltatio Mortis:The magnificent seven played their first Dance of the Dead on one cold day in January shortly following the turn of the millennium. With five bagpipes, two drums, and no technology they drove all the evil spirits out of the new dawning age, not yet realizing what the future would hold for the rambunctious dancers of the dead.After SALTATIO MORTIS had frequented the innumerable market places and castles (both at home and abroad), were forced to wander down stony roads, and had sung many a fair maiden a ditty, they noticed that indeed another world beyond the sounds of the Middle Ages known as the Modern Times existed. Very quickly the bagpipe here or the bagpipe there was exchanged for an electric guitar or a keyboard, and a refreshing gust of wind blew through the old melodies. It soon became clear that the old tunes should not be simply copied with contemporary instruments, but rather new and original songs should be brought into existence. Those who are now asking themselves what that sounds like, should first imagine a strong framework of drums, electronic beats and traditional percussion upon which keyboards and electric guitar form the basis for more ancient instruments such as the hurdy-gurdy, shawm and bagpipe to build upon. Finally, top this with the succinct vocals that combine the expressive poetry of days gone by and those to come. Once having made a name for themselves at festivals and in clubs, SALTATIO MORTIS came upon NAPALM RECORDS, and soon all parties involved, together with Maestro Lutz, the genius behind Umbra & Imago, produced the band's second full-length work, "Das Zweite Gesicht", which was released in 2002. The latest recording effort from SALTATIO MORTIS is entitled "Erwachen". And not unlike the band's previous work, the seven players once again uncover a deep and hidden meaning. After daring to dwell into modern times with "Das Zweite Gesicht", they now awaken to embrace the contemporary trend. "Erwachen" not only awakes in the present, but also looks to the future as the the *medieval 7* continue to summon the dreams of the past. It is still the past, now flourishing in the present, that teaches Saltatio Mortis the craftsmanship with which to blend what was once with what is now. But because nothing blooms without roots, the relics of ancient origins are to be distinctively heard and felt: Bagpipes, shalms, and hurdy-gurdies are all witness to these origins. The electric guitar, bass, synthesizer, and drums embody the here and now. Critical relevant lyrics, diversified vocals, and an uncompromising production shape a sound that invokes the desire to experience the band in a live environment. The subconscious can now embrace the many facets of Erwachen-the many facets of SALTATIO MORTIS: From the heavy riffs to the sensous melodic vocal arrangements and grand finale. This versatility shines through with every live performance, as does the band's desire to interact with its audience. It too finds an avenue of expression in Erwachen; for it is the live environment that clearly motivates Saltatio Mortis, inspires and signals chaos to lead the magnificent seven to creation. SALTATIO MORTIS is:
Alea der Bescheidene - Vocals, Bagpipes, Shawm Given to us by Napalm Records 5/04
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