Subtitled ‘an album made of water and stone,’ this thought-provoking and meditative concept release is centered around the myth and legend of the Lost City of Atlantis.  Brought to us by none other than the prolific Italian trio Ataraxia, three years of research, investigation, and studies of ancient texts and mythologies were put into this release.  Like other releases in Ataraxia’s vast discography, “Lost Atlantis” is a beautiful and subtle brand of ethereal/mediaeval music, with lush finger picked acoustics, well-done synthetic adaptations of period instruments, and dramatic female operatic vocals that very few vocalists outside of the classical music world could even hope to hold a candle to.
    
Compared to other Ataraxia releases, this album seems more soothing, with less percussion to make way for more vocals and acoustic guitars.  As similar to Love Is Colder Than Death as to the King’s Noyse, this release is something that would appeal to ethereal fans as well as period music enthusiasts and film score buffs.  With Lisa Gerard recently earning a Golden Globe for her contributions to “Gladiator” perhaps more people will be taking an interest in ancient musics?  We can only hope...
    
Though ideal for background music, this is not the kind of CD that is useful only to dispel silence.  There are a lot of interesting arrangements and emotive passages, both triumphant to mark remembrance for the legendary sunken city, it’s treasures, and gifted inhabitants.  But also a greater portion of the disc is melancholic, serving as a pensive testament to the mysterious loss and tragedy of Atlantis’ disappearance and its population’s demise.   Overall, this is a great release and a worthwhile addition to your dark ambient collections; its intellectual, well-arranged, and an enthralling listen.   Check this out!
 

Track List:
1.) The Early Days
2.) Daytia
3.) Aperlae
4.) Dolphins
5.) Agharti
6.) Fountains
7.) Mu-Land
8.) Oduarpa
9.) Lost Atlantis
10.) The Land Of Sand Of Gold Of Ruin
11.) Departure

Ataraxia is:
Francesca Nicoli: vocals, flute, drum programming
Vittorio Vandelli: acoustic/electric guitars, drum programming
Giovanni Pagliari: keyboards, drum programming

Ataraxia – Official Website:
http://www.ataraxia.net

Cruel Moon Int’l / Cold Meat Industry:
http://www.coldmeat.se

02/01/01