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KRODA (Ukr) / VELIMOR (Rus): Having heard both KRODA & VELIMOR, I was not surprised they should feature on a split release together. It makes perfect sense. Both bands play an impressive brand of Heathen Folk Black Metal & so fit together naturally. I had played VELIMOR “Ancestry” to the point where my hi-fi should have spontaneously combusted, so when I knew this release was available I ignored my mounting debt & bought it anyway. For those new to these bands, this release represents them in spectacular fashion. Both bands present three tracks, plus there is also a track where the bands collaborate; “By a Hammer of Spirit & Identity of Blood”. KRODA sound slightly rawer than expected for their part of the split, so the juxtaposition between rough Heathen Black Metal & atmospheric Ukrainian Folk is greater. The musicianship is outstanding. The guitars are harsh & edgy yet also expertly played & with soaring epic solos. The vocal parts seem slightly gruffer & are clearly heard, bringing to mind experimentalists NOKTURNAL MORTUM, especially combined with the use of traditional Ukrainian instruments. KRODA also present an impressive cover of “Jesus Tod” by BURZUM. Certainly a non-conventional take on BURZUM (including Ukrainian language lyrics & folk elements), which again brings to mind NOKTURNAL MORTUM who also covered BURZUM (“Journey to the Stars”) for the 2002 Unholy Records compilation “Visions: Tribute to BURZUM”. The track which sees KRODA & VELIMOR combine their efforts (featuring Mstivoy of VELIMOR and Eisenslav of KRODA) means the release flows almost seamlessly from KRODA to VELIMOR. “By a Hammer of Spirit & Identity of Blood” combines the harsher sounds of VELIMOR with the nature-filled instrumentation of KRODA. Following this track are the VELIMOR tracks. VELIMOR are distinctly bassier, heavier & more aggressive. They have a surprisingly Old School take on riffs which make the tracks punchy & very cool. The drumming is more dominant, faster & a war-like battery. There is also variation in vocal style which deviates closer to a Death Metal growl at points & is sometimes closer to early BATHORY. VELIMOR still use their trademark flute-like instrument. Upon studying band photographs, I would say this instrument is actually a recorder! Definitely a first in Black Metal, & it is expertly played giving unique atmosphere & infectious melody. This is easily one of the best releases I have heard this year. Reviewed by: Wulfhild.
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