Description

Arkona should need no introduction for those into pagan folk metal, but they probably do anyway. They are a five-piece band formed back in 2002. Moscow’s finest band is led by the beautiful and charismatic Masha “Scream” one of the most unique vocalists in metal today, regardless of genre. She can sing softly and sound great, or use her harsh vocal style and give Angela Gassow a run for her money. She is backed by a very capable ensemble, most of whom are from veteran black metallers Rossomahaar. They released their debut album Vozrozhdenie (Revival in English) in 2004 and after two more albums it was finally time to release a live album. Zhizn Vo Slavu (Life For Glory) was recorded at the Club Relax in Moscow on the 23rd of October 2005. The crowd, small in number, is very energetic, singing along and calling out the band name numerous times, and Masha’s name in particular. She deserves the acclaim, as she is clearly the star of the show. She engages the crowd often, I just wish I knew what she was saying, as its all obviously in Russian, as are the lyrics. What I do know is that the band have an unparalleled love of their home country, Mother Russia. This is exemplified in their finest song ever, Rus. This song has it all, stirring melodies. epic vocals, beautiful synths, and catchy guitar riffs. It is indeed a crowning achievement in pagan metal history. Masha, with her limitless energy, eggs the crowd on in nearly every track, from the tribal sounding Tuman Yarom to the epic Po Siroy Zemle. It must be mentioned that the sound of the album is superb, the crowd never once drowns out the band, as happens all to often on live albums. This album also includes the bands three-track debut demo, Rus (Russia), released in 2002, among these tracks we have an early version and a haunting version of Rus. For all those who are now just discovering this wonderful band thanks to their new deal with Napalm Records, know this: The band have always been this good, even when barely known outside their home country.

Track list:
1. Intro
2. Skvoz Tuman Vekov
3. Po Syroy Zemle
4. Maslenitsa
5. Chornyye Debri Voyny
6. Tuman Yarom
7. Gnev Vremon
8. Po Zverinym Tropam
9. Rus
10. Vosstaniye Roda
11. Oy, To Ne Vecher
12. Kolyada-demo 2002
13. Solntsevorot-demo 2002
14. Rus (Russia)-demo 2002