On their first new album in 6 years, renaissance folk-rock ensemble Blackmore’s Night – led by legendary guitarist Ritchie Blackmore (Rainbow, Deep Purple) and award-winning vocalist Candice Night – mix the tradition of Folk music and the love for the Renaissance era with their style, inspired by the myths and legends of ancient times.

The husband and wife team are accompanied by their 7 piece band of minstrels on the album’s 10 tracks. And while it’s rooted in a traditional approach, fans of Ritchie Blackmore’s unique style will not be disappointed. Heartfelt ballads such as a brand-new version of ‘Wish You Were Here’ set the scene for magical tales on “Four Winds” and “The Twisted Oak”. For the two instrumental tracks – “Darker Shade Of Black” and “Der letzte Musketier” – Ritchie shows that his brilliance on the guitar is still magic as it always was.

“The story of “Nature’s Light” is the story of nature being the true queen and the simplicity and magic of everyday miracles that happen right before your eyes”, says Candice Night. “If you feel stagnant or repressed in your surroundings, it is important to take a break from the mundane and go where your heart leads you. It allows you to recharge and begin again with fresh and renewed energy. For some it is the ocean, for some the woods, for some feeling the sun on your face. Our music is an escape from the stress and pressure of modern times. Journey back through time with us, to a simpler, magical time where music enters your heart and soul.”

Last month, the group released a music video for the album’s title track. “Nature’s Light” is dedicated to the unique magic of renaissance faires.

“I heard something that was a similar kind of melody, so I took that melody and gave it to Candice.”, Blackmore says of the song. “I said, ‘This represents people going to a faire, a very ceremonial thing, with the King and Queen coming through.’ and it needed to have the bombastic pageantry of celebration. A regal announcement that royalty was coming to town.”

Nature’s Light is available March 12th on limited edition yellow 1LP gatefold vinyl, 1LP gatefold vinyl, CD digipak and on digital platforms, as well as in a strictly limited 2-CD mediabook version that includes a bonus CD featuring carefully selected  Blackmore’s Night’s masterpieces from the band’s extensive back catalogue.

You can pre-order it now.