The Passing Of The Grey Company

Summoning's song "The Passing Of The Grey Company" is a haunting and evocative piece that draws heavily from J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth lore, particularly the journey of the Grey Company in "The Lord of the Rings." The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a land overshadowed by grief and darkness, with references to key locations and events from the epic saga. The song captures the somber and foreboding atmosphere as the Grey Company, led by Aragorn, travels to fulfill an ancient oath and summon the Dead Men of Dunharrow to aid in the fight against Sauron.

The recurring imagery of shadows, darkness, and trembling towers underscores the sense of impending doom and the weight of unfulfilled promises. The mention of Minas Tirith, the White Tower, and the Stone of Erech ties the song directly to the pivotal moments in Tolkien's narrative. The Grey Company, a group of rangers and warriors, is depicted as riding under the White Mountains, a journey fraught with peril and the looming presence of cursed graves. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and destiny, as the company must awaken the dead to honor their ancient vow and turn the tide of war.

Summoning's musical style, characterized by atmospheric black metal with symphonic elements, enhances the epic and melancholic tone of the song. The band's use of Tolkien's mythology is not just a tribute but a deep exploration of the themes of honor, sacrifice, and the struggle against overwhelming darkness. "The Passing Of The Grey Company" is a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of Tolkien's work and the timeless appeal of stories that delve into the human (and inhuman) condition, the consequences of broken oaths, and the hope that can arise even in the darkest of times.