Orkrist, the atmospheric/gothic/black/folk metal band from Slovakia, made their long-awaited return a few months ago with their fourth album, “Luea”. Prepare yourself for a journey through distant landscapes and immersive soundscapes, where lush instrumentation seamlessly blends with soaring melodies and crushing riffs. I must admit, this is my first encounter with the band, and I’m thrilled to explore the sonic realms Orkrist creates. “Luea” is a masterful fusion of diverse musical elements, its unique contrasts forming an elegant and innovative sonic tapestry. This new offering from Orkrist is a multi-layered and multi-dimensional gift that resists simple categorization. While the core of their sound is undeniably metal, their music goes far beyond, weaving a rich and captivating array of influences. The band speaks to discerning listeners—those who appreciate the fine details and nuances of their intricate compositions. Though steeped in the energy of metal, Orkrist’s approach is refreshingly diverse, keeping the listener intrigued from start to finish. “Luea” marks a significant achievement for the band, with the potential to bring them the recognition they deserve. Despite some minor issues with sound production, which could be slightly clearer and more cohesive, the album achieves an impressive balance between the various musical elements at play. Orkrist should be proud of this work—it’s a brilliant example of how metal can evolve and remain captivating. This is how a heavy metal record should sound.
♦ 8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
