Collects Trulen (demo 1994) and Demo 93 (1993)!
Although conceived as Shamaatae's solo endeavour right from the start, the very first incarnation of the band comprised three members. This three-piece line-up would go on to create ARCKANUM's first official output Demo 93. Recorded in the rehearsal room with minimalistic gear, Demo 93 is a rather raw, spontaneous affair driven by youthful enthusiasm. Stylistically torn between death and black metal, Demo 93 showcases a band still searching for their distinct identity. Having said that, the tape whose cover already blazoned a painting of Pan has this certain charm only the reckless fervour of youth is able to conjure and is a very rewarding listen not only for die-hard ARCKANUM fans.
Since the original tapes were mailed out by ARCKANUM, Demo 93 has never been available again.
Come 1994 ARCKANUM's second and last demo Trulen is unleashed. Notwithstanding Demo - 93's merits, it`s with Trulen that Shamaatae would carve his own niche. Drawing copious amounts from the wellsprings of mad inspiration and totally immersed within his own world, this demo is where ARCKANUM's journey really started. Most of the ingredients that turned the first three albums into highly original, magical records are already present in one way or another on this demo: the completely original and versatile vocals, the rather simple, repetitive but memorable riffs, atmospheric parts consisting of samples of nature sounds and keyboard melodies, the lyrics written and sung in Old Swedish etc. - it's all there. The development between this and the first demo is tremendous even more so considering everything was composed and recorded by only one person - Shamaatae.
