A tale of two bands? From Germany, Antichrisis has revealed diametrically opposed musical identities on their first two official recordings. In 1997, they released Cantara Anachoreta, which was something of a gothic, progressive black metal affair defined by the deep, throaty vocals and obstreperous guitar playing of Sid (also known as Moonshadow). 1998's A Legacy of Love favored a folk-rock approach with pop sensibilities. Uilleann pipes and the female lead vocals of Dragonfly (or Willowcat) played major roles on that album. Both recordings, however, are similar in lyrical content as themes revolving around ancient cultures, fantasy, and mysticism are routinely explored and frequently in a tenebrous manner. ~ Dave Sleger