Chuck Schuldiner Project

Tuesday, May 16, 2023

Varmia - nie nas widzę

 

Varmia are a one of a kind force in the Polish black metal scene. Their first album, nie nas widze comes after a potent debut EP, Prolog. It builds on the themes found within that release but goes so much further, painting visions of ancient Europe and guiding listeners into dark forgotten times. This is pagan black metal done with aplomb, elegantly fusing the throat singing and traditional instrumentation seemingly inspired by bands like Wardruna and Heilung with stunning black metal performances. It's a potent combination to say the least. 

The biggest drawback to nie nas widze is simply that it is a very ambitious album and sometimes the production can't quite keep up. Yet this also becomes a strength because it gives the record a certain kvlt magic, as if you're listening to one of the great old demos and losing yourself in the strength of the old gods. Varmia have found a path that is wholly their own and it's far too fun to immerse yourself in the transcendent execution. I've said many times on this blog that the best black metal is the stuff that feels old, and Varmia, at their best, feel wonderfully ancient. The scope of what they've done here is thrilling, even if at over an hour long runtime it can be a bit much to digest in one sitting. 

nie nas widze is a portent of great things to come. It's black metal that really grasps some of the wonderful fundamental witchery of the genre and asks listeners to unveil some of the darkness that makes the whole thing so engaging. Varmia clearly are extremely talented and wodnerfully creative. Hearing them polish and hone their sound over the next few years is going to be a delight. Few bands have a debut LP this ambitious, and I feel that Varmia could truly be something apart, something greater.

Pre-order the album!

https://lnk.to/varmia

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