I was unfamiliar with Black Mirage, but their bandcamp page states that they hail from New York and not much else. The label describes the album as "Improvised strums on dulcimer over pulses of synthesis. Black Mirage is married to the moment. Sonically opposing modern synthesis with the Appalachian mountain dulcimer, we are taken on a journey through the eternal conflict." Dulcimer, eh? The only thing I listen to regularly that features dulcimer is In Gowan Ring, who I quite enjoy, so let's dive in and see how it compares.

“Crystal Dawn” opens with sweeping synth and hypnotic dulcimer strumming. The overall effect is trancelike with a slightly melancholic feel. “Distant Sleep” goes off in a different direction with a grooving number. “Golden Mercy” is a short, pleasant piece that sort of blends into the previous track. “Eve of Diamonds” features pulsing bass drone and clashing dulcimer that has a middle eastern feel to it. “Hunger Stone” closes it off with harmonica and sparse strings paired with spacey synth. For me, this is the most engaging track on the disc, and really draws you in.

If you are looking for something peaceful, but not really drone, this would be well with picking up. There are no sudden movements and everything flows like a languid river. If you are looking for the bardic sounds of In Gowan Ring, this is not the same feel, although they may well be kindred spirits; same aim, but different approach. Quite pretty and pleasant. Put it on and relax with a good book - how often do I say that about an Inner Demons release? This album weighs in at around 33 minutes and is limited to 42 copies.