Batushka
Litourgiya

THE REVIEW

What I'm about to discuss is, I believe, something absolutely unheard of before.

In December 2015, from the deepest darkness emerged this musical collective with the obviously Russian name "Batushka" (literally "father", in a religious context), but originating from Poland, bringing with them this creation titled "Litourgiya".
The group has 3 members in the studio, although they reach a total of 8 for concerts. Virtually nothing is known about them, but rumor has it that they are all part of very well-known bands.
"Litourgiya" features a total of 8 tracks, all titled "Yekteniya" (lit. "litany") followed by various Roman numerals and another subtitle.

Litany I: Cleansing
Litany II: Blessing
Litany III: Wisdom
Litany IV: Grace
Litany V: Holy Entrance
Litany VI: Hope
Litany VII: Truth
Litany VIII: Salvation

Having a fair knowledge of it, I believe I can say that each piece even references the litany it is titled after.

This was already in itself a preview of the sound one is faced with, an exclusive novelty.
These travelers of the unknown (and even of time) showed the flair and genius to create a perfect blend of Black Metal, Doom Metal, and traditional Orthodox chants; the result that emerges is breathtaking: the solemnity of the chants (strictly in a low register) in communion, though not always, with Doom layers alternates with brutal and demonic, hyper-fast Black Metal.

While you listen to all this, imagine finding yourself in an abandoned Orthodox cathedral, almost falling apart. You wander in the thickest incense and can only glimpse the shapes of the flames of some candles nearly burnt out, left lit by who knows whom and when.
You are surrounded by a multitude of icons, overwhelmed by their majesty. I like to think that this music is the expression of their ambiguity.

The visual aspect also wants its share, as it rightly should, so I recommend watching some footage from their concerts.

Mystery of faith.