The reader will excuse for my ranting, but I needed to explain why as a general rule, compilation albums are just not worth anyone's hard-earned dollars or euros, which needs to be outlined before I can explain why this is the exception.

Firstly, this is not a compilation randomly compiled or consisting of bands tenuously linked through geography or style. This is a "conceptual compilation" in the sense that the album is based upon, and dedicated to, the art of Icelandic sculptor and painter Einar Jonsson.

Secondly, the overwhelming majority of the songs have been recorded for this compilation -- only four (out of 28) are previously released. And it's not just the big boys like Belborn who have previously released material on this compilation; martial stalwarts HERR and Von Thronstahl collaborate together for an exclusive track.

The first CD is labelled "Grief"; I'm not sure why it is named as the predominant neoclassical bombast is suggestive of Wagner. The aforementioned HERR / Von Thronstahl collaboration is the undisputed highlight of this CD, possessing martial stirrings far removed from Von Thronstahl's recent deviation into neofolk and lacking the Casio tones that marred their earlier but otherwise well composed work. Other artists on this CD include Agnivolok, Rukkanor and Storm of Capricorn.

The second CD is subtitled "Birth of Psyche" and is the yang to Grief's yin, consisting of more sombre and introspective textures, largely within the dark ambient fold. Artists on this CD include Rose Rovine e Amanti, Bisclaveret and a surprising ambient track from noise fiend Kadaver. The dark beauty of Bisclaveret stands out as being worthy of mention.

When done like this, with loads of exclusive tracks from a wide range of artists and united by a common and relevant theme, compilations no longer seem like hoary cash cows but an album to be bought and treasured like any other. Good stuff.