| German Import at a Domestic Price | Two years after the impressive resonance sToa received on their debut-album Urthona, it seemed almost impossible for Olaf and Conny to top the quality of their debut. But with Porta VIII they surely succeeded to record a more than worthy follow-up. Porta VIIIwas one of the bestselling Hyperium albums of all times and got overwhelming reviews literally everywhere! This CD is an album with a concept based on the fairy tale "Ariadne et Barbe Bleue" by Maurice Maeterlinck. But Porta VIII is a continuation of the original fairy tale. This album too was selling extremely well in all kind of countries worldwide and even entered the Mexican charts. An even deeper exploration in the world of classically-tinted ethereal music. Very orchestral and massive, their music is realized through lots of instrumentals and Cornelia’s beautiful vocals.
One of the classics from the Hyperium-era of Heavenly Voices, finally back in print after a very long absence! “When the female vocalist sings, my heart misses another beat.” - Music From The Empty Quarter.
Some fantastic fan reviews from Amazon.com:
| 4 of 5 Stars | exquisite electronically orchestrated recording, June 26, 2000 by MICHAEL COX from Houston. Stoa's Porta Octavia is a solid and beautiful recording. Creator Olaf Parusel creates completely luscious and grand orchestrations using electronic based equipment, Connie Levrow adds to this the real female voice. His compositions are the stuff of films. They are dark and light, dramatic and romantic. Stoa has 2 full recordings with another on the way, they have been featured also on numerous compilations. They were, to my surprise on the new age charts in Mexico. I think Stoa will only get better with time.
| 5 of 5 Stars | Breathtaking, mystical and gracefully dark,& sensual, August 14, 1999 by: An Amazon.com Customer. This cd brings a darkness, erotica and grace together into one. I have never been more moved by music in my life. Its a higher level of spirituality. As gracefull and erotic as Enigma but with a darker influence. I hope amazon has it available soon for all listeners to enjoy and experience.
| 5 of 5 Stars | Stoa transcends past and present, July 19, 1998 by Ognjen Redzic from Chicago. This second release by Stoa is for all of you who would like to hear creative spirit, beautiful voice and gorgeous melodies float over the years of human history. Lyrics are all in Latin,and while some may call it pretentious, I find it mysterious and holy. Stoa's music echoes through the abandoned streets before barbarians came. . . Yeah, yeah, I know that Porta VIII is an adaptation of Bluebeard story, but you can read that on the cover once you buy this CD.
This album was originally released on Germany's Hyperium label. 
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