The Merlons - Trance

All Music Guide

An unusual diversion for the Merlons Trance is exactly what its title implies. After years of merging alternative and prog rock with medieval instruments, and immediately following perhaps their most mainstream effort Sinn-Licht the Merlons offer up a fifty minute, single track album characterized by a steady, hypnotic, rat-a-tat drum beat with only sparse underlying accompaniment from the unique instruments that defined them through Water Naked Nature (1996). The bombarde, hurdy-gurdy, bagpipes and violin serve only to prolong the incessant drone while any notion of melody is completely abandoned. Ani's distinct lead voice is not heard from until the very end and guitar is utilized in only a minimalist fashion. Sure, Trance is interesting at some level but it's hardly enjoyable or even musical, as it lacks any of the conventional structures that would indicate beginning, middle and end.

- Dave Sleger, All Music Guide