Nemoreus – Orcunadoras – Chapter two: Wanderer

A few months ago I wrote the review for Chapter One, so I’d recommend going back and reading it first. For those unfamiliar with Nemoreus, I can briefly tell that Nemoreus is a six-member Austrian folk-metal band.

Orcunadoras – Chapter two: Wanderer is the second full-length by this Austrian sextet, released by Running Wild Productions at the end of 2023. Orcunadoras will get divided into four chapters, all released separately. Orcunadoras – Chapter two: Wanderer is a short release, containing only three songs (lasts just over twelve minutes!), entitled “The Demon Inside”, “The Travelling Warrior” and the shortest closing one, “Into the Dawnlight”.

Unlike in the case of Chapter One, this follow-up is entirely in English and follows the story and references the first chapter. It’s much easier for us non-German speakers to follow the story where in Chapter 2, warrior Orcun faces hostility from his village after leading his men to their deaths. He leaves his home and becomes a storyteller to save others from his mistakes. Thus, this second part of our four-part album also explores the depths of human emotions, taking listeners on an odyssey through despair, courage, and finding new peace after traumatic events. Furthermore, the whole tone is consistent throughout all three songs, and the lyrics carry the story forward. Another thing all three songs have in common is their focus on a typical folk metal atmosphere.

Orcunadoras – Chapter Two: Wanderer starts out with “The Demon Inside”, a medieval song where it unveils a haunting melody. The powerful instrumentation and evocative vocals create an atmosphere that is both haunting and captivating. Next track is called “The Travelling Warrior”, probably not meant to be, but it is my album favourite song, mainly due to a catchy little refrain and a reflective lyrical content. “Into the Dawnlight” features some mesmerizing female vocals of Alexandra Kastrinakis, accompanied by some familiar and pleasant folk melody. The dual vocals on this one are particularly noteworthy. Definately a nice way to end a part two of this fascinating story.

On Orcunadoras, Chapter Two: Wanderer, Nemoreus displays a diverse range of musical styles, dynamic performances, and thought-provoking storytelling, so no wonder why they already have a mark on the hearts and minds of all. I slightly prefer this chapter to the first one, that’s the reason for a slightly higher rating.

As you could see from this short song review; we’re dealing here with a nice piece of mid-tempo folk metal with main focus on clean vocals, enchanting melodies created by the use of medieval flute and violin sounds. With Orcunadoras Chapter Two – Wanderer, Nemoreus has once again succeeded in creating a great folk metal album.

In conclusion; releasing a story divided into four different chapters might seem as a risky task, but it seems to work well here. It manages to get a listener engaged and eager to hear next chapter. So far I find this story pretty engaging and fascinating, thus I’m already looking for Chapter 3. Until then, I will give Orcunadoras – Chapter Two: Wanderer a few more spins.

Full story on Orcunadoras – Chapter two at the band´s official website https://www.nemoreus.com/discography/Orcunadoras/Orcunadoras-Chapter-two-Wanderer/