Man, the Polish black metal scene is absolutely on fire. Mgła, Behemoth and Forest Whispers have all put out terrific albums recently. Add Batushka to that list. Unfortunately this will be the band's only album. There were only two permanent members of the band and now there has been a split with both members claiming they kicked the other out of the band and then formed a new one. Both bands are trying to claim the name, though they are now different groups and each are releasing their own music. Maybe this is too early to tell, but maybe not.
Batushka made big waves in the extreme metal world with this release that combines traditional black metal with doom metal and drapes everything with an incredibly sinister atmosphere via the usage of Christian church ritual elements. They use Orthodox chanted vocals, chimes, bells and more to create the feel of attending a church service, even if the underlying music is malevolent and dark. It is an absolutely intriguing and spell-binding release that haunts the listener long after the album is done.
Even without the added touches, the music of Batushka is powerful enough on its own. It is dark and atmospheric black metal that occasionally drags and oozes, combining a funereal tone with the blackened riffs. Every once in awhile, a guitar solo shines through like a beam of light in the darkness. The primary vocals are delivered in a harsh shriek, typical of the style.
It will be interesting to see what comes of the split of the two primary members of Batushka. Some people have picked their sides already and each band has already released something. I have yet to pick either one up, but I am anxious to hear what each one has to offer. This album is incredible.
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