Where the Long Shadows Fall (The Inmost Light)

First in what was known as the Inmost Light trilogy, Where the Long Shadows Fall is a one-track EP almost 20 minutes in length. With impressionist, pastoral art from the works of Louis Wain (the liner notes indicate that sales will be used to renovate his gravesite), it's an intriguing effort, though one that will be most of interest to hardcore fans than neophytes. Tibet's reflective, mysterious spoken lyrics, conveniently printed in the booklet, slowly unfold over a mantra-like combination of choir samples, ominous guitar chimes, and the core point of the song, a loop of the singing of Alessandro Morechi, the last known castrato. The haunting wail makes for a excellent counterpoint for Tibet, and the whole is a memorable listen, soothing and disturbing at once. Guests for the recording include regular collaborators John Balance on vocals and Steven Stapleton on bells and mixing.