ERA - Ameno
The history of the ERA song - "Ameno":
"Ameno" is, by far, the most famous composition of the French new age Era musical project created by composer Eric Levy. Released in 1996, this song became an international hit, and its unique mystical sound made it a cult.
Creation and background of the idea:
Authorship: The music was composed by Eric Levy. The lyrics of the song, which became an integral part of its success, were written by Guy Protheroe (Guy Protheroe).
Inspiration: Eric Levy, being passionate about the history of medieval Europe, drew inspiration from the mystical religious movement of the Cathars, which was widespread in the south of France in the 12th-13th centuries. The sound of Era is a unique musical interpretation of this era.
Language: One of the most interesting features of "Ameno" is its text. It is written in what is known as pseudo-Latin. This means that the words sound like Latin, but they do not actually have a specific meaning and were specifically created for the song. The repeated phrases, such as "Ameno" and "Dori me," create a sense of an ancient, mysterious incantation without requiring a specific translation.
Vocals: The male vocals in the song are performed by Guy Prothero, and the female parts belong to Harriet Jay. The combination of their voices with choral parts recorded by the English Chamber Choir creates the majestic and mystical sound that the audience loved so much.
Release and Success:
Album: "Ameno" was released as a single in 1996 from the self-titled debut album "Era".
Commercial Success: The song quickly gained popularity, becoming a hit in the charts of France, Belgium, Sweden, Switzerland, and other European countries. It also found an audience in Latin America and Eastern Europe, where Era's music was often used as soundtracks for various programs and shows.
Visuals: The song's music video, shot in picturesque, medieval-like locations, complemented the band's mystical image. Castles and ancient landscapes served as a visual accompaniment to the music.
Legacy and Influence:
Cult status: "Ameno" has become more than just a hit; it has become a cultural phenomenon. It is often used in movies, TV shows, and documentaries to create an atmosphere of mystery, grandeur, or even the supernatural.
Internet memes: In 2021, the song experienced a rebirth due to its popularity on social media, particularly on TikTok, where it became part of numerous viral videos. The phrase "Dorime" has become an internet meme. This led to numerous remixes, including the popular "Ameno Amapiano Remix" by Goya Menor and Nektunez.
A symbol of the genre: "Ameno" became one of the pioneers of the new age genre, along with songs by artists such as Enigma and Gregorian. It proved that music that combines elements of classical choral singing with modern arrangements can be commercially successful and deeply moving for listeners.
