Russian folk metal band Alkonost have been around since the Nineties, and they recently returned with their 15th (I think) studio album. These days they are based around the duo of Andrey Losev (guitars, keyboards) and Ksenia Pobuzhanskaya (vocals) along with multiple guest musicians. Andrey has been there since the very beginning, nearly 30 years ago, while Ksenia has been fronting the band for a decade, so they have obviously developed a very good relationship. The lyrics are in Russian, and the original album title is ’ Дар саламандры’ but don’t let any of that put you off as what we have here is a very good album indeed which brings together folk, symphonic and even some death metal influences. I have no idea what Ksenia is singing about, but she has a good clear voice which makes one think of Nightwish, Delain, Without Temptation, After Forever and Korpiklaani.

I am sure the only reason these guys are not major players is the minor fact they are from Russia, as even though there is a language barrier there is no doubt this is epic and a blast from the beginning to the very end. I listen to more Russian music than many, and there is no doubt this is one of the most exciting bands from that country that I have ever come across from. Somehow, they are staying close to their roots but are also wonderfully commercial which makes this an album one can get inside the very first time of playing and from there on in it only get better. I have no idea what their earlier albums are like, but all their material including this one is easily available on Bandcamp so if you enjoy this style of music I highly recommend you give them a try.

Rating: 8/10

Links:
https://www.alkonost.ru/