It leaves you saying, "This is only their 2nd release?!" Jan 15, 2004 (5 of 6 found this helpful)
I bought Priestess last year, and have been awaiting the release of Eternal for about 5 months now. If I say I love the Priestess CD, then there is no word to describe Eternal. I am going to try and squeeze out some words to describe this awe-inspiring CD.
Like Priestess, Butterfly Messiah tries to reflect the beauty of their music in their packaging. Presented in a DigiPak with silver ink, the art makes you feel like you are actually ripping them off.
The songs are so entrancing. I am almost speechless.
Track 1: For Today. At the very Beginning of the song you realize that this is whole CD is different than what was done in 2002. Shannon's vocals have become more confidant, as well as the artistic sounds of the music.
Track 2: The Circle. The dark, heavy, pounding of the keyboards mixed with Shannon's harping and Robert's vocals totally make this song a keeper.
Track 3: It's Time. A definite dance hit. Anyone who knows of Butterfly Messiah must know this song. You just can't tire of this song.
Track 4: Eternal. So many times a title track leaves you wondering, "They named their album after this?" I could ask that about Eternal, but if you listen to this song you will know why. Shannon's singing is beautiful. I get filled with hope listening to this song. My favorite Butterfly Messiah song. Ever.
Track 5: With Roses. My favorite song with Robert doing the main vocals. The lyrics are extremely deep, "Sorry I had to heal/ I could no longer hide/ I have undying hope/ for the very first time," Those lines touch me deeply. I love the almost whimsical sounding piano melody.
Track 6: Virtual. This song takes off where it seems `It's Time' left off... amazing beats, lyrics and vocals. I can't get tired of this song's dramatic pause about a minute in and the trance like echo of Shannon singing softly... as if trying to get you ready for something huge.
Track 7: Grey. The intro to this is lovely. A soft relaxing song. Reminds me for some reason of the best ballads from the late 80's.
Track 8: Ascension. Dramatic. Almost cinematic sounding. You could just see this song in a movie's soundtrack.
Track 9: Believe. A great song. I often think of what songs I would play for children if I have some in the future. This would defiantly be one of them. I had trouble relaxing a couple of days ago from the flu. This song got me to the plane my body desperately needed. Thank you Butterfly Messiah.
Track 10: Falling Stars. A song that really is best heard with headphones! I love the tricks played on my ears!
Track 11: Aeon. Wow. Another dramatic masterpiece full of catchy lyrics. Shannon blows me away with the lowness of her voice. I love hearing this song on the way to work for some reason. The first song of the album I sang along with.
Track 12: Counterstrike. If Virtual is getting you ready for something... this is it. `Nuff said
Bewitching, profound and unique... Jan 15, 2004
Where to begin...this CD has so much to offer! Stunningly beautiful vocals, poetic, philosophical lyrics, and powerful, captivating musical arrangements...I could go on and on. This is a truly prodigious accomplishment!!!
Butterfly Messiah has managed to create a sound that is uniquely their own, while offering a collection of songs that is diverse, yet connected. Believe it or not, there aren't any trite lyrics here, nor are there any songs that sound the same. I'm absolutely amazed!
"Eternal" will appeal to those who appreciate everything from electronic/synthpop to "darkwave" and dance...this music is so difficult to categorize! Get this CD. Prepare to be blown away!