Official reissue with remastered sound. Originally released in 2002, Agalloch's sophomore effort is also widely considered their best. On The Mantle, the Portland-based band took a more mellow approach than on their debut Pale Folklore taking big influence from neo folk music (i.e. Death In June) and cinema by "thinking in images and how sound might express those images" Another huge influence was the sound of Godspeed You! Black Emperor, especially with their use of black metal styled guitar. 9 tracks in all including "Odal," "In the Shadow of Our Pale Companion," "You Were But a Ghost in My Arms," "The Lodge," and more. Gatefold sleeve with booklet included.

• remastered sound
• includes booklet
• music label: The End Records 2016

reviewed by Mjolk 08/2016