I’m not entirely sure what it is with the underground Russian scene, but it has been in the last few years that we’ve seen some truly exceptional acts come from that particular scene. From folk metal to that densest doom metal to even some of the most interesting psychedelic rock bands out there, we have more than enough to choose from when it comes to quality that scratches whatever itch we may have for any particular style. Post-black metal is not something that is unheard of by the Russians, but it’s not often that we’re given a band like Varhara whose previous works have always been something to check out, yet it is with this new offering that we see the name put together what is arguably its best and most captivating yet.

No matter what you call this sound be it post-black metal, blackgaze, atmospheric, or whatever else may happen to pop into your mind, a proper work of the style can be quite tricky to pull off and even harder to find despite the wild possibilities for excellence that can be found at any given opportunity should a band simply seize the moment for themselves. For years now, Varhara has been a name deep within the underground that only a few were lucky enough to have experience, but the winds seem to be changing for the better with the release of “Voidflower” already getting the amount of praise that it more than deserves. Just the first track alone from this six-track experience should be enough to make anyone see why that’s the case. From the captivating atmospheres, immense contrast in the very sound of Varhara, the raw emotions that are constantly at play throughout the album, and the very craftsmanship that is on constant display here, the very depths of “Voidflower” quickly become effortless to lose yourself in. The very first that Varhara wanders throughout this record is one that really connects with the soul with the catharsis, pain, and release that’s felt for the whole of the album of the sort that effortlessly transcends the language barrier at play here as even though I know not a lick of Russian, I cannot deny the passion that crafted this evocative performance that never once lets down.

There is more than enough glory throughout the underground of metal in the Russian scene, but it because of bands like Varhara that we continuously have a reason to keep crawling back for more with creations like this downright sensational and of a breed all their own that hold nothing back, never disappoint, and always execute with deadly precision. Become lost in between the ferns and beneath the raining trees of “Voidflower”, and I can promise you that you with have an experience that you will not forget any time soon.

LISTEN to “Voidflower” on Bandcamp here.

FOLLOW Varhara on Instagram here.