MOONSTONE

With the release of her second album, Moonstone, Kaery Ann unveils a new side of her sound, crafting a sonic journey that blends raw emotions with deep introspection. Rooted in the ethereal dark folk and psychedelic essence of her debut, this new work explores heavier territories, embracing doom and stoner influences. Through crushing riffs and haunting vocals, it reflects on loss, the forces of nature, and existential struggle. The production balances raw intensity with a deep, immersive atmosphere, enhancing the albums emotional depth. The album opens with a song in Latin, setting the tone with a ritualistic invocation. As its title suggests, it serves as a reminder to preserve ones inner purity in a decaying world, weaving ancient echoes into the albums foundation. Todeslied follows as a hymn to death, carrying a solemn mood. The record also draws upon literary inspirations: one track is based on The Road by Cormac McCarthy, evoking apocalyptic desolation and the desperate fight for survival, while Dress in flames gives voice to the fury and imprisonment of Bertha Mason, the tormented character in Charlotte Brontes victorian novel Jane Eyre. Compared to her previous release, which was more personal, Moonstone marks a shift towards greater collaboration within the band, with a more unified approach to songwriting and arrangements. The album, featuring two tracks by bassist Francesca Papi, has been arranged and refined together with Davide Rosa (guitar) and Fabio Orticoni (drums). The release also includes a powerful tribute to Bathory with a reinterpretation of Shores in Flames.