Der Eine, Wahre König

Windswept - “Der eine, wahre König” 2024

Windswept
“Der eine, wahre König”

Origin: Kharkiv, Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine

Genre: Black Metal

Label: Primitive Reaction

Roman Saenko - Ukraine’s most prolific black metal artist - his name is synonymous with controversy. Is he an NSBM artist? I’ll answer a question with a question: who gives a shit? His projects: Drudkh and Hate Forest - sheer brilliance incarnate. Some of the world’s finest and truest black metal as realized by a genius and stark visionary. From the now battle-torn Ukraine, Roman has put together another brand new project in Windswept, and yes, it too is unapologetically true black metal of the most reputable variety. On May 31, Windswept will unveil a brand new mini-album, “Der eine, wahre König”, via Primitive Reaction.

Pure fucking power: engrossing and aggressive yet undeniably elegant with more than a touch of melody to compliment a tortured vocal contribution. From the depths of catharsis emerge these four epic tracks and with them what feels like the heartache of a thousand years. Only melancholy to sooth depression and only what’s dismal to pacify rage. The forceful momentum of blast-beats and the chaos of clashing cymbals to drive forward captivating riffs in this most modestly produced gem of an album. You can just feel the passion here, but burning soft and easy like the comfort of a warm blanket on a cold Ukrainian eve. You can practically taste the medovukha and hear the wind as it gales through the forest canopy. But a taste of more great things to come out of Windswept.

From top to bottom, “Der eine, wahre König” delivers the quintessential Roman Saenko experience: wisely-constructed compositions, soul-stirring melodies and textured vocals. Deep chants and miserable growls to tell what is undoubtedly a profound tale. Philosophical? Probably, national pride? Possibly, but it’s the music that really shines here. A must-listen for any BM enthusiast who appreciates stripped-down product and unparalleled melody.

Despite the allegations and the rumors surrounding Roman, he unabashedly continues down his long-established road of black metal excellence without a fuck to give or an appeasement for anyone. A genuine artist who so embodies everything that matters to BM. Windswept - yet another great project - the apex of Ukrainian black metal and a testament to the will and the pride of one of our proud genre’s most respected artists. Electricity in the air! Like an awe-inspiring chain of lightning cracking over a wanting scene is “Der eine, wahre König”. It’s just that damn good…


Experience “Jedes Todes Lohn” from ”Der eine, wahre König” right here as presented by Primitive Reaction:

https://youtu.be/wnsJ-38yXuo?si=0e8sv9W-5X-E58wn

~Jeger