Hugh Collins Rice: Hildegard Sequences

Ah, MEDIVA's latest album "Sequences" is a delightful romp through medieval-inspired melodies and modern electronic beats. It's like taking a time machine back to the Renaissance fair, only with a killer sound system. The album kicks off with the infectious track "Castle Party," featuring catchy flute riffs and a pounding bassline that will have you dancing like it's 1499. The fusion of old and new is seamless, with lutes and harpsichords blending effortlessly with synths and drum machines. Lead singer Lady Beatrice's vocals are a standout on tracks like "Knight in Shining Armour," where her angelic voice soars over a driving electro-pop backing. It's like Enya meets Daft Punk, and it works surprisingly well. But it's not all whimsy and merriment on "Sequences." The haunting ballad "Black Plague Blues" delves into darker themes, with lyrics that paint a vivid picture of medieval despair. It's a stark contrast to the more upbeat tracks, showcasing MEDIVA's range and depth as musicians. Overall, "Sequences" is a triumph of genre-bending creativity and musical prowess. It's a true testament to MEDIVA's ability to blend the past and present into something entirely unique and utterly captivating. So grab your goblet of mead, put on your dancing shoes, and prepare to be transported back in time with this enchanting album.