Arkona - Stenka na Stenku (2011)

Few months before the release of their sixth full-length album, the Russian guys of the Pagan/Folk Metal Arkona decided to keep listeners a little taste of their new release with the EP “Stenka na Stenku”. In this release we have one song from the upcoming album, and five more previously unreleased tracks. The EP features just enough material to keep the band’s hordes of fans happy until their new full-length.

Opening the EP we have “Stenka Na Stenku”, a very dynamic track that shows the wide spectrum of elements that comprise the band’s sound. Masha’s vocals are as excellent as always and the festive feeling to the song makes it a very catchy and effective Pagan/Folk Metal piece. The accordion-like keyboards are very well fitting in this awesome song.

“Valenki” has a great Folkish feel to it and a hectic pace that makes it a complete rollercoaster ride. The acoustic version of “Goi, Rode, Goi!” is even better than the original since it has a very somber feeling to it. The string instruments are perfectly arranged to sound very dark and emotional, and when paired with Masha’s vocals they create a very powerful atmosphere.

Featuring Freki of Varg, “Skal” delivers a much needed epic song that greatly lifts the spirits of this EP. Featuring catchy guitar riffs and intoxicating instrumentation, this is the best song of this short but sweet release. In “Duren” the band goes full on Pagan Metal mode with aggressive guitars and drumming, beautifully adorned by ethereal melodic sections that will not easily be forgotten.

The band closes the release with “Noviy Mir”, a very emotional and majestic song that shines thanks to the rich instrumentation and very effective pace. In this song we can hear that the band can step to the side and create a simple and effective track that will move people.

For being just an EP before their next full-length album, “Stenka na Stenku” is a very well crafted release that only made us more impatient about the band’s next musical exploration. We particularly love that Arkona (as always) never gets dull and keeps pushing their sound into different directions while keeping their own identity that easily separates them from the rest. Very recommendable release for all fans of female fronted Pagan/Folk Metal.  

Release: June 14th, 2011

Country: Russia