Review: “Archaistia” by Runopatia

“Technically, “Archaistia” remains easiest to follow, catchy, if you will, Runopatia record to this day and stays so, due all but simplest form and composition of the tracks. Main factor, probably, being responsible for how this EP found to represent itself at the end, is simply because it was predicted to be recorded, yet unplanned in a core, but at the same time, changed drastically somehow spontaneous, at the very late stage. Visually, simultaneously, it is no less rooted in archaic, towns folks atmosphere of the times that were never lived, but recognized as a view from renaissance woodcuts in printed fairy tales. Tearing us from reality into telling stories and poems of infinite imagination.“ ~ Runopatia

An avant-garde Black Metal project experimenting with works of nostalgia since 2008, Runopatia have long specialised in quality over quantity, taking their time to allow their musicianship to match their nightmarish vision. Partnering with Polish underground label TDM Archivist their latest burnt offering is titled “Archaistia” and was recorded, mixed and mastered by Przemysław Nowak at Impressive-Art Studio (Odraza, Asgaard, Outre, Totenmesse). Opening cut  “Świat Przejrzy” (or “The World Will See Through“) begins with a haunting keyboard introduction before ushering in warm synths and building into a Melodic Black Metal riff reminiscent of something Swedish masters Vinterland might offer up. The cymbal hits sound flat, perhaps an indication that they’re programmed rather than from a drummer of flesh and bone but it is no matter as it is that riff which steals the day, pushing the group into an Extreme Metal direction with evil sounding Polish lyrics. Those keys take on a music box like style for a twisted final moment to send a chill down the spine before “Serce Krwawe” (or “Bloody Heart“) takes shape. A more traditional Black Metal cut with a bloodcurdling growl and blast beats to bring it to life, it is sorter and sharper than its predecessor with a distinctive urgency about it in the first half before fading into black. Evil laughter during the first minute of the magnum opus that is “Za Późno” or (“Too Late”), a cut that clocks in at nine minutes and seventeen seconds, is an interesting move, the band experimenting with tempo changes and almost Gothic synths underneath their riffage. A false ending at the six minute mark gives rise to a second whirlwind of percussive battery, the melodic riffs surprisingly rich as they crack a shaft of light through the dark clouds overhead. What more could you possibly want? A melodic, technical solo? That’s how this affair ends, its warmth radiating in sublime muscianship [7.5/10]

Track Listing

1. Świat Przejrzy
2. Serce Krwawe
3. Za Późno

“Archaistia” by Runopatia is out 13th December 2024 via TDM Archivist and is available over at bandcamp