Album Review: Во Славу Солнца by Крыница
Released in 2007 under the label Sonnenvolk Productions, Во Славу Солнца by Russian band Крыница is a fascinating blend of rock, folk, world, and country influences, with strong stylistic leanings toward neofolk and folk rock. This album feels like a journey through ancient Slavic landscapes, where traditional instruments meet modern sensibilities. It’s raw, heartfelt, and unapologetically authentic—qualities that make it linger in your mind long after the final note fades.
The tracklist itself reads like a collection of forgotten tales brought back to life. Two songs stand out as particularly memorable: "Земля-Матушка" (Mother Earth) and "Чёрный Ворон" (Black Raven). These tracks encapsulate the essence of what makes this album so compelling.
"Земля-Матушка" hits hard right from the start. The interplay between Лев Шишов’s bayan and Родослав’s balalaika creates an earthy, grounding atmosphere. Мориган’s vocals soar above the instrumentation, carrying both strength and vulnerability. You can almost picture vast fields stretching endlessly under a golden sun while listening to this one. What stays with you isn’t just the melody but the emotional weight behind it—a tribute to nature’s enduring spirit.
On the other hand, "Чёрный Ворон" takes things darker and more mysterious. The Jew’s harp played by Аид adds an eerie texture, while Велемир’s violin weaves haunting melodies throughout. There’s something primal about this track; it feels like folklore whispered around a fire on a cold night. Its repetitive structure draws you deeper into its spell, making it impossible not to hum along even hours later.
One thing worth noting is how well the band balances tradition and innovation. Tracks like "Ой ли честь-то добру молодцу...." showcase their ability to honor old-world storytelling without sounding dated. Meanwhile, the production quality—handled by engineer Морок—is clean enough to let each instrument shine but retains a certain roughness that suits the material perfectly.
The credits reveal a tight-knit group of musicians who clearly share a deep connection to their craft. From Valfodrsdottir’s evocative design work to Родослав’s dual role as lyricist and photographer, every contributor seems invested in creating a cohesive experience. Even small details, like the use of unconventional instruments such as the Jew’s harp and bayan, add layers of authenticity that elevate the entire project.
Reflecting on Во Славу Солнца, it strikes me how rare albums like this are today. In a world dominated by auto-tuned pop and formulaic playlists, Крыница dares to go against the grain. They remind us that music doesn’t always need to chase trends—it can instead root itself firmly in cultural heritage and still resonate deeply.
And here’s the unexpected part: despite being over 15 years old, this album feels oddly timeless. Listening to it feels less like hearing a record and more like stepping into another era entirely—one where stories were sung rather than told. If anything, Во Славу Солнца proves that some truths—like the power of the land, the wind, and the human voice—are eternal.
So if you’re tired of the same old tunes cluttering your playlist, give this gem a spin. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself daydreaming about ancient forests and distant horizons afterward.
