Review of new Montfaucon album entitled ‘Renaissance’

Montfaucon showcases an interesting assortment of influences throughout the record.

Montfaucon released their album, Renaissance, on Feb. 17. This death metal duo is comprised of Valentin Mayamsin and Michel Cadenzar. The pair are both originally from Uzbekestan. However, while Cadenzar remains in their home country, Mayamsin has relocated to the San Francisco Bay area. Despite having an ocean between them, these artists have continued their work together – which resulted in the six-track record, Renaissance.

“Prisoner” opens Renaissance in an eerie and foreboding manner. Here, deeply resonating piano melodies drawn listeners in. As further instrumentation enters the track, audiences become enveloped in the operatic nature of this music. However, the piece takes a sudden turn when vocals come in. The remainder of this opening cut seems to switch back and forth between two separate songs. One is complex – appealingly grounded in classical inclinations, while indulging death metal tendencies. The other is overly familiar and straightforward.

The second track on Renaissance is called “I Was A Warrior.” After opening with a short monologue, it dives into an interesting arrangement. One part organ dirge, one part folk song and all doom, this is an engaging piece. Following “I Was A Warrior” is “Alone.” Both tracks have a cinematographic quality to them, as though the guttural voice is narrating some form of tragedy. Instrumentation here ranges from wailing electric guitar with heavy percussion, to simple piano notes. At times this comes across as disjointed, where as others it all fits together beautifully.

A wide array of influences from Montfaucan

Next “Mastermind” comes in with more of a traditionally American death metal sense about it. Though reasonably executed, it is less interesting than other cuts on the album. Despite the title, “Insanity” is a comparatively understated piece. Here, Montfaucon’s seemingly opposing tendencies come together in a well-executed blend.

Closing out Renaissance is “The Last Night.” Montfaucon presents a clear wrap-up in these final moments. Elements from previous tracks seem to circle back here, much like a coda. As a result, audiences leave with a clear sense of the entire album at the forefront of their minds.

With Renaissance, Montfaucon created an interesting album. Their wide-ranging influences and stylistic choices make for an engaging listen. Disjointed moments and worn out minutes do appear at times in this album. However, these gentlemen seem to have something strong to offer. Listeners will look forward to hearing Montfaucon as their sound further develops.