Originally on HDK's DSM (dungeon synth magazine) No. 1 Winter 2020 compilation. Heimat der Katastrophe sent over a synopsis and I created music to the idea along with a secret diary of a madman.
IN THE SOUTHERN LANDS OF BAL-MARÖN, DEEP IN THE FORREST OF SOLVAY, THE COUNT AWAITS YOUR WEARY SOUL...
The Count of Balsorano was an educated and controversial man. Creator of great political feats, the legend tells that at one point he went mad and retired in a castle that he had built in the dark forest of Solvay. The manor, however, was not just an old building but a laby-rinth of sumptuous rooms, stairs and incongruous places with an absurd and unpredictable geometry. In that tangle of rooms the guests ended up getting lost. Their disorientation was height-
ened by the Count’s hallucinated behaviour, which insinuated a subtle discomfort that would soon turn into real terror. It seems that no one has ever come alive out of the intricate maze of rooms and that a few are still trapped in there for immemorial time. People say that whoever dares to challenge this mad creation of the Count’s mind can conquer the enormous treasure that is locked up in there... From the secret diary of the Count of Balsorano:
0:00 Shelter
A weary patron from the storm? Oh my! I must warmly welcome him in! He looks most promising! I must greet him when we gets to the entry of my humble quarters.
1:32 The Pendulum
As I lead my guest for slumber, my shadowing clock is delightfully effective! Do not fear my precious clock, although it seems to... follow... It has not moved. It’s all part of my brilliant print! Utilizing the most advanced marvels, each strike tethers him tightly! Poor fool... nev-ertheless, my studies leave no space for pity.
2:28 Delirium
Now that he’s delirious, I can perform my work! The copious corners will seem as though he’s lost, but I’ve masterfully created my maze to end where I wish him. I’ll slyly pass the torch to my dizzying specimen then I shall simply... slip away into the shadows and...watch. Watch the hypnosis take effect like
cider to the jammiest bits of jam... oh how exciting!
7:00 Fifteen Puzzle
When he opens this door, the look of his gigglemug will be memorable! Oh my scathing heart is beating faster! Like a mouse to cheshire cheese, he cannot resist but to sprint for the light. Little does my pet know the mirrors will have him scurrying in circles. All the better, I prefer to examine hearts while beating at a faster pace!
9:30 The Coin
I... am a gentleman, a good master. I always give my pets the illusion of hope. I would not be a proper experimentalist if I did not! What would the townspeople think of me? Here... you must be tired...
lie here... these ties are to calm you. Don’t tense up, you’ll bruise! Now, let’s witness your fate.
10:26 The Experiment
Please... stay awake! I must witness your gaze!
13:30 All Good Things Must Come to an End
I long for you, dear guest. When will you discover my quarters? Until then, I shall recline here patiently, reminiscing wonderful times with my generous patrons...
credits
released January 9, 2021
All music created by Furcifer's stringed and keyed machines.
The Count's diary written by Caudatus Brevi
Furcifer and Caudatus Brevi are intellectual property of Noé Montoya.
supported by 24 fans who also own “Furcifer's Castle of Madness”
A triumphant piece full of atmospheric synthesizers that set the tone and soundscape perfectly. Forest Shrine is able to use their music to create an image in your head. This sounds like spring. 4/5 ClassyMusicSnob
supported by 24 fans who also own “Furcifer's Castle of Madness”
Old Wizard gives the listener the opportunity to follow along on a journey through a mystical landscape. From stories of long-lost love turned into rivalry, enchanted woodland secrets, celestial navigation, and the art of sorcery, there exists the perfect atmosphere into which one can escape. Septembre
supported by 23 fans who also own “Furcifer's Castle of Madness”
Talk about your allstar selections. I think I have an album from nearly everyone on this lineup.
That Six D-20s opener feels like something you could put on a final trailer for a DnD session that is reaching the end of a campaign after years, finally after many trials, deaths, failures and false wins - comes a chance at victory.
Of special note is Khüll - Return From Exile, which has that heroric flavor. GarrettStrife