Extreme folk is a genre that I am always quick to explore. Not only is the alternative instrumentation and historical basis interesting, but it is a style full of flexibility when it comes to execution. You’ve got the bombastic, progressive approach of Moonsorrow, the theatrical antics of A Forest of Stars, and the straight melodeath viking metal of Amon Amarth. Today’s entry is in regards to Jarun, a black metal act with a penchant for Opeth’s acoustic folk.
From the first moments of “Przedświt” (fittingly, Polish for “daybreak”), we are treated to a crisp, clean intro that would have been right at home on anything from Still Life to Damnation. Strong comparisons aside, Jarun create some lovely arrangements that are equally reminiscent of Neil Young and Led Zeppelin. Interludes featuring effects other than distortion dip into alternative and post-rock. Instrumental track, “Cisy,” is extremely evocative and was actually one of my favorite tracks. These soft breaks keep a nice flow that allows both the peaceful and warlike to respectively make a stronger impact.
The resulting transitions are exceptionally smooth, with “Cisy” leading nicely into the freeform-sounding intro of “Noc niedokończona” (“Night of the Unfinished?”). This standout track also features a very bouncy Blackwater Park-esque riff. Again, no complaints here. BP is one of my favorite albums of all time. I am pretty sensitive to sounds that feel like a cheap imitation: off-brand bands, if you will. This is not that. Jarun take a familiar sound and own it as their own.
Furthermore, Pod niebem utkanym z popiołu has a few tricks of its own. “Piołun” unexpectedly dials up the speed with an interesting, alternating riff, blazing tremolo, and a satisfying solo. The scream that closes out the song is beyond effective. Speaking of which, the vocals are far more black metal than Opeth’s deep growls. The higher register is well mixed and suits the music. Other nice flourishes include the pinch harmonics on “Jak wiatr” (“like the wind”), rock solos fit for 70’s/80’s classics, and the overall strong production.
Ultimately, Jarun is another welcome entry into the world of black and folk fusion. Poland has become a rising mecca for great extreme metal, from the widely known Behemoth and Vader to lesser known gems like Srogość. Jarun will make a fine addition to the pantheon. There is room for growth in some of the songwriting as far as tightening things up here and there, but overall I am pleased to have Pod niebem utkanym z popiołu in my collection to further explore. 20 PLN (roughly $5.42) on bandcamp.