Trwoga "Trwoga" CD

Vocals - Voortifer
Guitars, Synths - Raven
Guitars - Urobhor
Bass - Geist
Drums - Hasthur

Recorded in Eltra, Bydgoszcz. CD limited 500 copies released by Black Death Production.

Trwoga are another great example of the Polish underground. Having been formed in 2016 they have released a demo shortly after before they have started writing and recording a full length. In 2019 they have finally released their self-titled debut album and this is an interesting piece of black metal, as compared to some of their countrymen this record is more in the raw and classic vein of black metal’s origin as other works from the country.
This is ceremonial black metal standing on its own as a hypnotic, captivating ritual experience. Ritualistic guitar chords work as counter harmony to the muffled shrieking of the vocals, pushed way in the back of the tomb. Lead guitar sounds are echoing in the hollow, and the main chords are chugging along in stoic manner. Often the band keeps blending the main riffs into a whitewash of warbling sound, like an unstable connection between our realm and the cursed lands of unfathomable darkness and sorrow.
This album has a very frosty and classic vibe and mood, thanks to the atmospheric guitar riffs and the heavy use of reverb and hall effects. The feel inside is rather hostile and misanthropic, which is well compensated by the melancholy emitted from the other side. Tempo variations are thrown in for good measure, and you can expect anything varying from blasting furies, to groovier parts, to some slower patterns – with all of those different things thrown at the listener within one single song.
What I really like about this band is their ability to craft special moments, by finding the right tones while construction their main themes and harmonies. The lead guitar work is outstanding, creating various moods over the course of the record. On top of that you are going to find some very cool synth samples, enhancing the atmosphere even further. Something similar can be said about the vocals, which are perfectly suited to the music.
The production is kept pretty harsh, making the music sound gritty and raw without sacrificing any of the clarity. With a lot of memorable moments and some really cool tunes Trwoga have been a great surprise to me. I also really like the cover, adding to the mystic nature of this album. Good stuff all around.

Sample: