After numerous smaller releases, Kyiv-based band Merzotna Potvora are finally ready to present their second full-length album, “Poliuvannia” (Hunting). The digital release is supported by the Neformat Family label, and later on, cassettes from Bathöryhead distro should be expected.”
Poliuvannia” is a skilful combination of classic black metal and blackened speed metal, which the band has showed on their previous releases. Concerning the lyrics and general vibe, however, this time the album is more angry and sad. “A small handful of joy remained. Complete hopelessness and sorrow,” to quote Oleksiy.
You can already access 3 singles on Bandcamp, and the rest of the album releases on January 23.
“Poliuvannia” is an honest LP without covers and intros, a standard length and almost equal division into two sides for cassettes or vinyl. I wouldn’t say that it was harder to write, just longer, but the listener should also pay more attention to the LP format, — says band member Oleksij Pominchuk (backing vocals, guitars, bass).
The album is divided into two parts: the first was created by Kostiantyn Orel (vocals, guitars, bass), and the second by Oleksij himself. He came up with the idea for such a division after listening to Darkthrone’s “Circle the Wagons”, which alternates tracks by Fenriz and Nocturno Culto.
Usually Merzotna Potvora is a two-person band with digital drums, however this time Oleksij and Kostiantyn decided to change their approach and invited experienced drummer Petro Buday (Обрій / Obrij, Vidmershiy Shmat). Also, there are a few interesting guests from Ukrainian metal-scene represented on the album, look for more details on the Bandcamp page.
The artwork was created by Norwegian artist Kjell Åge Meland (worked with Sarke, Tulus, etc.) who himself offered the band to use one of his paintings for this album. Merzotna Potvora members express hope to be heard with their new album, but due to the war circumstances in Ukraine for the first time in their existence have no certain plans to share.
‘The war does not give us the opportunity to fully develop creatively, but we still managed to contribute to Ukrainian culture, showing the unwavering spirit of our people. We also help the army, to the extent possible. We believe and desire for Ukraine to achieve victory, — says Oleksij.
Merzotna Potvora — Ukrainian black/thrash metal band, influenced by Bathory, Venom, Razor, Exciter, Destruction, Kreator, Slayer, Sodom, Bulldozer etc. Their rich discography already has few albums, EPs, splits (including one with Japanese band Abigail) and a few singles.
More about the band:
https://www.facebook.com/MerzotnaPotvora