WHITE WILLOW – Ex Tenebris (2024 Remaster)

Recently remastered by White Willow’s very own Jacob Holm-Lupo and sporting the original cover artwork, this 2024 version of the band’s sophomore album Ex Tenebris (1997) is a most welcome addition to the prog music library. Venturing into darker and more world-weary territory than its predecessor did, the LP feels starker and more direct somehow. It is also less dense than the debut effort but in no way does that make it any less interesting as it is steeped in atmosphere and rich in light and shade. The earthy, bucolic flavors and psychedelic folk vibes are still there but melancholy and an understated sense of something ominous prevail throughout. Its seven compositions display creativity, cohesion, drama, and raw emotion, and Ex Tenebris lends itself well to contemplation and stands tall as an original, expressive, and robust piece of work that is packed with engaging ideas. The ritualistic trance and the meditative beauty of ‘A Strange Procession…‘ make that particular song a personal favorite to this writer and a standout moment on the disc. The remastering brings its many nuances to life splendidly and if you missed this one the first time around you really ought to invest in this sparkling new issue.