DIONYSUS IS THE 9TH STUDIO ALBUM FROM DEAD CAN DANCE. An otherworldly fusion of influences from around the globe, the revered goth/avant-garde/art rock duo presents a mesmerizing collection of sounds and beautifully imagined tongues, and in the process of doing so takes listeners on an immersive, meditative journey. Split into three acts, the record opens w/ a flurry of Eastern string melodies and to an Middle-East-tinged end, complete with drones and ululations ("Dance of the Bacchantes"). As the tribute for the ancient Greek god of music & wine continues, and the trance-inducing moments are accented by Bulgarian gadulka, Brazilian berimbau, Balkan gaida, rainsticks, and more. In addition to the aforementioned, check out "ACT II: Psychopomp," "ACT II: The Invocation," and "ACT I: Liberator of Minds."

• gatefold sleeve
• printed inner sleeve
• music label: Pias 2019

reviewed by dojo cat 04/19