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KRODA (Ukr): “Towards the Firmaments Verge of Life” CD
(Hammermark Art / Ancient Nation)
There have been some mind-blowing bands hailing from the Ukraine of late. KRODA do not let the side down, & add to the pride of their country & it’s superior musical output. When I heard VELIMOR (Rus), I was amazed by the way a wind instrument was used in addition to their brand of Pagan Black Metal. KRODA use a similar technique, although their sound is perhaps more complex & incorporates a larger range of instruments. Firstly the guitar is bold, powerful & full of Heathen might. The riffing is technically advanced, the guitar fairly clean sounding, melodic, epic & bombastic. The drums are not too prominent in the mix & they compliment the walls of sound built vocally & instrumentally. The drumming also features a moderate use of variation, & will become heavier at the appropriate moments, plus there is also a moderate use of high-hats & a more relaxed style during quieter moments, sometimes ritualistic drumming is used. The vocals are wolfish, ranging from a growled voice, war chants, to gruff shouts & cold screams. I would describe KRODA’s style as Pagan/Heathen Black Metal with elements of Ukrainian Folk. KRODA compliment their brand of Black Metal with numerous instruments & although I am not an expert in the field, I would say that the majority of additional instruments used are perhaps traditional Ukrainian instruments. Plus there is also a dreamlike flute or recorder added to a number of tracks which not only enhances the sound but also makes the listener appreciate the traditional side of Black Metal. Considering that KRODA use their CD cover artwork to depict idealist images of landscape combined with rustic borders & pagan symbolism, it would suggest that the band have Völkisch tendencies & ancestral inspiration. Lyrics are mainly printed in both English & Ukrainian. Lyrical themes cover nature & the loss of the Land of our Forefathers to new unwelcome masters, patriotism, & the beauty of the Ukraine. Nostalgic, compelling & rich with astounding musicianship. Reviewed by Wulfhild.
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