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2022 release from the Ukrainian Pagan Black Metal legends is here! Available in two distinct vinyl options:
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Smoke (Ultra Clear with Smoke Marble Effect) – Limited to just 222 copies - one time pressing!
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Black Vinyl – Second pressing, limited to 400 copies.
Each LP comes in a deluxe gatefold jacket with stunning UV details, a thick printed insert, and a sturdy printed inner sleeve, making this a must-have collector's edition for true fans.
Nokturnal Mortum’s To Lunar Poetry offers a refreshing reimagining of their 1996 release, Lunar Poetry, showcasing the band’s ability to breathe new life into classic material. Unlike many re-recordings that merely rehash the original, this album stands out for its bold innovations while maintaining the integrity of the compositions that made the original a fan favorite.
One of the most striking changes in To Lunar Poetry is the expanded use of atmospheric elements. The dramatic and immersive soundscapes are elevated by the use of synthesizers, folk instruments, and richer orchestration. These enhancements add a new depth to the album, making each track feel more expansive and emotionally charged. Tracks like "Carpathian Mysteries" shine with their incorporation of choir chants, giving the already powerful riffs an added sense of grandeur.
Another significant update is the refined production. While Lunar Poetry was characterized by a raw, cold sound, To Lunar Poetry brings in a fuller, more massive mix. The downtuned guitars create a heavier, more aggressive tone, complemented by robust drum work that never gets lost behind the wall of sound. The enhanced production highlights previously buried details, such as the intricate solos and rhythmic variations that now shine through more clearly.
The reworking of songs is also a welcome surprise. Tracks like "Autodafe" feature reconstructed parts that breathe new life into the compositions, while "Return of the Vampire Lord" benefits from Knjaz Varggoth’s matured vocal delivery. His voice has evolved from a typical black metal rasp into a monstrous, commanding growl, adding an intense emotional weight to the performance. His vocal versatility, particularly on "Return of the Vampire Lord," enhances the track's climactic moments, providing an epic conclusion to the song.
What sets To Lunar Poetry apart from many re-recordings is how it successfully stands on its own. Despite the material being almost three decades old, the melodies and atmosphere feel timeless, with the new arrangements adding creative flair that makes the album feel fresh and relevant. Even though there are some deviations from the original—such as the altered tempo on “Perun’s Celestial Silver” and a few missing nuances like the pinch harmonics—the album as a whole presents a coherent and captivating listening experience.
In summary, To Lunar Poetry is a bold and thoughtful reimagining of Nokturnal Mortum’s early work. With enhanced production, atmospheric richness, and dynamic vocal performances, it offers both a nostalgic nod to the past and a powerful statement of the band's continued creativity. For fans of symphonic and folk-infused black metal, this reissue is not to be missed.
Highlights: “Autodafe,” “Return of the Vampire Lord,” “Carpathian Mysteries.”
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