Fernmage - ...A Fernmage Side Quest

You’ve always found the forest to be a great place of refuge, we both know this to be true. So, it came as no surprise to you that day whilst you walked past the same familiar river. You noticed that you weren’t alone. As you followed those shapes amongst the trees, you noticed something changing in the air; a gentle, shimmering magic and sparkle. At that moment, amongst the moss & woodland flowers, you were taken back to a scene from your childhood. A pastoral vignette; naive & magical.

As you walked further into the verdant landscape, all memories of your life outside of the woods began to fade. The trees changed colours, the leaves danced to a silent music, and a golden light illuminated your path. Noticing a clearing ahead, you approached with caution and noticed an abundance of bluebells carpeting the forest floor, hundreds of beautiful, tiny lilac jewels. The heady green, floral scent of the flower’s perfume surprised you and (feeling now disoriented), you noticed a small, yellow glowing door at the base of a grand oak tree. You must have found them now. This must be the house of the Fernmage.

Returning to Cosmic Ocean for the second time (see COSMIC013 from 2023 and the artist’s own 2022 pressing of ‘Brackenlore’), we’re proud to present a new compilation of Fernmage's three ‘Side Quest’ releases: ’Brackenbard’, ‘Briarsbane; and ’Fiddlehead Forge’, originally released by the artist in July 2024 and now available in this complete edition for the first time. Over the last few years Fernmage has continued to charm the fantasy synth community with their own unique take on our beloved ambient genre, adding to their ever-increasing catalogue of emotional adventure songwriting with celebrated titles such as ‘Speak Frond and Enter’ (2022), ‘Brrrrackenlore’ (2023) and two split releases. Describing themselves as ‘Pond Worship Fantasy Synth from the Mighty State of Cascadia’; Fernmage is sure to offer the road-weary traveller a welcome refuge for stillness and tranquility. Today we encourage you to sit with the gentle, ambient refrains of this romantic cassette in peace and comfort...

... and just to listen.