This quintet from Vilnius signed with the prestigious Napalm Records on the strength of the positive reception that its 2020 debut, Šesėlių Vedami, received in its home country. Ydos (Cracking) is firmly rooted in modern heavy metal and is characterized by powerful riffs, a tight rhythm section, accelerations, and sudden decelerations, all of which are coordinated by Agni’s gritty, furious, and desperate vocal style.
YDOS: a secret from Lithuania
These growls keep the narrative constantly poised on the edge of intense tension, accentuated by the structure of the nine songs, plus the introductory Pasaka, and interwoven with powerful electronic tremors that define a style that, if not innovative, certainly stands out. The guitars, in addition to devastating blast beats, showcase a classic metal influence, as in Revana.
More notable aspects in YDOS
The atmosphere takes on an almost sacred darkness in Apatjia, which ventures into goth metal territory and results in a furious ride. Another notable aspect is the almost constant use of the band’s native language, with the sole exception of Zelvar, which is sung in English. Thanks in part to this, Black Spikes do not intend to provide a single, unambiguous interpretation of their work, instead adopting a highly descriptive, cinematic narrative.
There is no shortage of pauses or moments when the pace slows down, and when illusory stillness makes its fleeting appearance. In each track on the album, Ydos describes humanity’s imperfections and flaws, as well as how humanity relates, or attempts to relate, to them. It is a collective work that draws strength from all its components and allows us to deepen our understanding of a complex subject that is certainly of interest, with a future yet to be written.
Tracklist
- PASAKA
- MOTINA
- MELAS
- MARA
- ZELVAR
- REVANA
- APATIJA
- AUREA
- SENAS DEMONAS
- DULKĖS
Line Up
- Agni – Vocals
- Yaga – Guitar, Electronic elements
- Mazvis – Guitar
- Sime – Bass
- Titas – Drums