The Middle Kingdom
Cruachan · 2000
48 min · 11 tracks · folk metal
A fusion of heavy riffs and traditional Irish melodies that evokes ancient myth and legend.
The Middle Kingdom is an album by Cruachan, released in 2000. A fusion of heavy riffs and traditional Irish melodies that evokes ancient myth and legend. 'The Middle Kingdom' received critical acclaim for its ambitious melding of folk music and metal, helping to define the folk metal scene in the early 2000s. It's often referenced as a key influence for subsequent bands in the genre, showcasing how traditional themes can coexist with modern metal sounds. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does The Middle Kingdom sound like?
A fusion of heavy riffs and traditional Irish melodies that evokes ancient myth and legend. Rooted in folk metal.
What makes The Middle Kingdom by Cruachan notable?
'The Middle Kingdom' received critical acclaim for its ambitious melding of folk music and metal, helping to define the folk metal scene in the early 2000s. It's often referenced as a key influence for subsequent bands in the genre, showcasing how traditional themes can coexist with modern metal sounds. Released in 2000, 'The Middle Kingdom' is Cruachan's third studio album, following their 1999 album 'The Morrigan's Call.' At this point, the band was solidifying its identity within the folk metal genre, blending Celtic themes with heavier instrumentation. This album marked a significant evolution in their sound, incorporating more complex arrangements and deeper explorations of Irish folklore.
How many songs are on The Middle Kingdom?
The Middle Kingdom has 11 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 A Celtic Mourning 4:01
- 2 Celtica (Voice of the Morrigan) Standout 5:38
- 3 The Fianna 4:53
- 4 A Druids Passing 3:22
- 5 Is fuair an chroí 4:51
- 6 Cattle Raid of Cooley (Táin bó Cuailgne) Standout 4:46
- 7 The Middle Kingdom 4:38
- 8 Óró sé do bheatha abhaile 4:17
- 9 Unstabled (Steeds of Macha) 4:26
- 10 The Butterfly 3:46
- 11 To Hell or to Connaught Standout 3:46
Release Date
January 1, 2000
Artist Origin
Ireland
Runtime
48 min 24 sec
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