Negură Bunget

The Profile

Negură Bunget is a Romanian atmospheric black metal band formed in Timișoara in 1995 by Hupogrammos and Negru. Acclaimed for blending black metal with Romanian folk instruments and spiritual, nature-focused themes, they released key albums such as ’N Crugu Bradului (2002) and OM (2006). After Hupogrammos and Sol Faur departed in 2009, Negru continued the band, issuing Vîrstele pămîntului (2010) and later works. Following Negru’s death in 2017, the band’s activity effectively ceased; the album Zău appeared posthumously in 2021.

Reviews highlight OM and ’N Crugu Bradului as high points, describing a black-folk-ambient blend with shamanic overtones. The classic trio (Hupogrammos/Sol Faur/Negru) split in 2009; Negru carried on with a new lineup and a softened, contemplative sound on Vîrstele pămîntului. The EP Poarta De Dincolo received notably negative feedback. The band achieved cult status in parts of Europe.

Reviews praise the band’s fusion of black metal with folk, ambient and psychedelic elements, often citing OM and ’N Crugu Bradului as benchmarks. Maiestrit is hailed as a fierce, passionate reaffirmation of their core sound. Vîrstele pămîntului, with a new lineup around Negru, is warmly received for its atmosphere and cohesion. One dissenting note: the EP Poarta De Dincolo is criticized as below their usual standard.