ALBUM REVIEW: Motanka – Motanka

Forged in the fires of Lutsk, Ukraine – MOTANKA combine metal with a mystical fusion of electronica and native folk instruments. Referring to themselves as “Mystic Metal” this ambitious quartet are intent on transferring the raw, trance-like energy of their live shows into their debut album. Having converted the masses at Wacken Metal Battle 2018 with their unique and abstract performance and winning a commendable second place: will their self titled debut album push them forward as the pride of Ukraine or will their otherworldly reverie be swept away in the wind?

Ignited by the lonely tones of an ethereal dulcimer, Alatyr and Fire Burns convey the dreamlike contrast of their musical identity. Combining haunting choir driven vocals as beautiful as they are mesmerising with atmospheric tones that sway between raw native themes and electronica it certainly protrudes expectations. Air showcases the vocal prowess of MOTANKA, conjuring visions of multiple ancestral spirits chanting in unison while maintaining a loosely metal foundation. Like the deep resonance of a frame drum, the mystical concepts flow gently into Des’-u-horakh which sees the union of dominating ambience and organic percussion. Just as the heavier components of this musical journey begin to slip away Oy-ty-moya-Zemie crashes through your eardrums in a seamless storm of ferocity and peace.

At this stage it’s safe to say MOTANKA will draw fans from those interested in ambient metal, they take an idea that has already been done but added unique elements – some intrinsic to their culture – and created something undeniably their own. The war between turbulence and nirvana continues as Bosymy-nizhkamy incorporates hardcore infused intensity whilst Voroh leaps gracefully between bygone chants and face melting heaviness. For a four-piece, MOTANKA sound huge, with so many layers augmenting the musical experience it’s no wonder their live show is proclaimed as trance-like. The dulcimer is an unusual but welcome instrument of choice, it’s certainly under-represented in metal but it plays a noteworthy role in bringing tranquillity into a genre notorious for powerful, dominating composition.

Berehynya casts a well-deserved spotlight over the dulcimer before Horizon pounds you with waves of musical excellence: wholesome, entrancing and well arranged. Smouldering together admirable vocals and simpler structure, Pace Of The Space introduces more variety as well as epic production. Evolving into a freight train of furore Khreshchennya hits the spot with rapturous yet harmonious delivery. It’s good to see MOTANKA flowing freely between their varied strains of sound and maintain a crescendo of energy from start to finish. What Are You Living For grows gracefully before Verba explodes in a burst of energy, glowing violently as the band possess a thunderous style of playing before Kroda waves a heartfelt farewell to what is arguably a mind blowing debut album.

It’s clear that MOTANKA have accomplished their task of transferring the energy and trance-like effect of their lives shows into the debut album. Starting with an almost meditative sound focusing on resonant drums and choir driven chants it gradually evolves into a furious stampede of power. This album is fuelled with a unique, enchanting and relentless energy that if nothing else predicts a prosperous future for a band oozing with ability.

Rating: 9/10

Motanka is out now via Napalm Records. 

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