Ukrainian Black Metal. Tracks 1-3: "Glaciology" EP. 4-5: from "Proarkhe" EP. 6-7: from "Aeon" EP.
Fans of Roman Saenko's work with Drudkh and Hate Forest may have overlooked his side project, Precambrian, but it's a gem that shouldn't be missed. This compilation album, featuring material from three EPs recorded between 2013 and 2019, offers a glimpse into the band's evolution leading up to their full album, "Tectonics." In many ways, this collection represents some of Saenko's best work over the past decade.
Thematically, Precambrian delves into Earth's ancient past, before complex life forms emerged. The music on this album reflects this primordial era, with raw, haunting compositions that evoke a time of chaotic geological processes. Each EP in this compilation consists of two full-length tracks, with the most recent EP, "Glaciology," also featuring an eerie intro, "Voice of Snow," that sets the tone for the rest of the album.
The music is characterized by layers of feedback and distortion, intertwined with melancholic riffs, rasping vocals, and frenetic blast beats. While reminiscent of Hate Forest's style, Precambrian's sound feels like a natural progression, tapping into basic, primal emotions that resonate with the album's theme. The tracks evoke images of volcanic eruptions, tectonic shifts, and the violent upheavals of a nascent planet.
Despite the intense and brutal nature of the music, there are moments of peace and calm, hinting at brief respites in the tumultuous geological upheaval. Throughout the album, the riffs are hypnotic and memorable, weaving guitar-driven melodies that evoke the raw power of nature in its most primal form.
In conclusion, Precambrian's side project offers a unique and compelling musical experience. With its blend of intense aggression and tranquil beauty, this album transcends Saenko's other recent work, showcasing a vital and mesmerizing energy that leaves listeners wanting more.
