Protokult have been defining folk/pagan metal since 2009 when they released their debut album “Ancestral Anthems”, since then they have created three additional uncompromising and relentless albums with their fifth “Transcending The Ruins” coming out on October 1, 2020.
Over two years in the making, “Transcending The Ruins” is a rush, meant to be enjoyed either as a whole journey or at any entry point, the band ensures. Approaching this record with a bit more maturity and consistency, the result is heavier, faster, darker.
Inspired and fascinated by various metal genres alongside folk-culture, after a few years of experimenting, Protokult was meant to fuse the two together while paying homage to the past, Bacchanalian festivities, and honouring the underground.
For fans of Arkona, Korpiklaani, and Nightwish, the record pulsates from start to finish yet incorporates the massive dynamics, ambience, and dashes of folk-melodies that the band has become known for.
Before “Transcending The Ruins” officially releases, the band have teamed up Bravewords for the album’s exclusive full stream HERE.
The band comments on the full length’s release:
“‘Transcending The Ruins’ is an album about growing up and tipping our hats to the great metal influences of the generations. Some can say the industry has been shaken hard and is in a state of flux so as artists we try to outdo ourselves on every performance and transcend what the popular or common standards may be. Everyone is playing on the edge of their ability and no matter whether you listen from start to finish or dive in randomly, that energy and sincerity are everywhere. This is Protokult on speed all the while putting on a professional face, which makes it the most consistent and rewarding album to date.”
“Transcending The Ruins” will be out on October 1, 2020. Album pre-order on Bandcamp.
Music Video “Feed Your Demons” – YouTube
Music Video – “Troubled Lad (Slainte Mhaith)” – YouTube
Track Listing:
1. Mark Of Thunder (6:45)
2. Feed Your Demons (6:25)
3. 1516 (Keeper of the Hops) (3:58)
4. Oy Kanada (5:29)
5. Troubled Lad (Slainte Mhaith) (4:30)
6. Na Gryanoi Nedele (1:47)
7. Rusalka (6:17)
8. Valley of Thorns (7:45)
9. Wenches (4:23)
10. Greet The Dawn (6:09)
11. Dead New World (15:23)
Album Length: 1:08:57
Album Credits:
• All songs performed by: Protokult
• All songs written by: Martin Drozd, Ekaterina
• Produced by: Protokult, Darren Mcgill
• Mixed by: Darren Mcgill
• Mastered by: Tyler Williams
• Album Artwork by: Marie Cherniy
• Member of SOCAN
• Canadian Content (MAPL)
Album Band Line Up:
Martin Drozd – guitar, vocals, keyboards, additional percussion, jawharp
Ekaterina Pyatkova- vocals, recorder,
Kaveh Afshar – drums
Jack Neila – rhythm and lead guitar
Dave Slowiak – bass, gang vocals
Live Band Line Up:
Martin Drozd – guitar and vocals
Dave Slowiak – bass and backup vocals
Ekaterina – vocals, recorder and synth
Jack Neila – guitar
Kaveh Afshar – drums
Guest musicians:
Quinn Strahl – electric violin
Matt Hilden (Vesication) – vocals
Joe Feral- vocals
Jesse Harvey (Ammo) – vocals
Cristina Marcu – operatic vocals
Ewelina Ferenc- folk vocals
Corktown trans-choir:
Jason Adamo, Geoff Hodsman, Andrei Sin, Davey White, Matt Hilden, Oliver Salathiel
For more info:
Protokult.com
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