Label: Independent
Release date: December 15th, 2024
It is not a secret or better to say surprise that many metal bands base their songs, albums or even career on war thematic. Speaking of bands whose career is based on military thematic, I am 100% sure you will all say: Sabaton. But there are a lot more, maybe out of the radar, including Polish Coffinwood, who deserve more attention.
Coffinwood was formed in 2017 in Warsaw. While their EP “Storm of Steel” is focused on The Great War, Chernobyl disaster is the main occupation of Polish black/death metallers on their album “Acolytes of Eternal Flame”. Beherit (bass, vocals), Trommeslager (drums) and Kumen (guitars, vocals), judged by their photos, were obviously born after the disaster (1986), but the worst nuclear accident in history surely did not leave them indifferent.
Although the atmosphere on the album is melancholic, the sound heavy and aggressive, lyrics are filled with emotions and deliver powerful messages. Throughout eight songs, Coffinwood tried to describe what happened before and after the reactor exploded. The songs are enriched with samples that further enhance the drama and bring you back to the period of disaster. Narration parts also have a very strong role in creating the overall atmosphere of the album.
Musically, there is nothing much to say. Poland has a rich history of black/death metal bands and it established itself as a country of quality musicians. Coffinwood does not deviate from this rule. Production of the album is good, black metal riffs dominate over death metal riffs and are well incorporated. Songs are composed in mid tempo. Trio from Warsaw are skilled musicians but they do not put that in the first plan.
The cover art and the booklet are signed by Piotr Pardiak and graphics by Mieszko Jankowski. 16-page booklet with photos will wake your consciousness and I’m sure it won’t leave anyone indifferent. I can admit that I do not remember when I was literally stunned by the booklet. Each time you open it, you will find something new, every picture, graphic, every sentence, word and letter will remind you of something. I personally associate design with the museums I’ve seen in Germany: DDR Museum in Berlin or Stasi Museum in Leipzig for example.
Instead of conclusion:
First of all, the album is very instructive, especially for the young generation who may have never heard of Chernobyl. Secondly, the music and lyrics are intelligently designed. And thirdly, the album will not leave anyone indifferent no matter from which aspect we are approaching it.
