Review: “Mens Devastata” by Vyr Muk

An unflinching exploration of psychological trauma, mental illness and the lingering horrors of war “Mens Devastata” is an intravenous drip created by multi instrumentalist and vocalist  Vladyslav Blizniuk. Hailing from Kharkiv in Ukraine, he has been nothing short of prolific over the past couple of years, releasing six EPs and two albums of Black and Death Metal infused with Folk and Ambient moments under the moniker Vyr Muk. While suffering and struggle have been common themes in his previous works, this one draws directly on post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and dissociation, channelling the internal battlefield that persists long after physical conflict ends…

…thematically reminiscent of the psychological horror of bands like Strangle Wire, this three track affair begins with the brutal “Shadows of Battles” which pushes into Extreme Metal territory with Black Metal styled percussive battery alongside the menacing and sinister overtones of Death Metal guitars. In a nostalgic nod towards 80’s Death Metal the bass is heavier in the mix which is a nice touch in amongst the controlled chaos of these sonic abrasions. The violent turbulence increases in intensity with “Voices of the Void“, the whirlwind of thunderous drumming a tornado of souls. Oppressive atmospherics have clearly been mastered long ago as this is the very essence of what it takes to conjure malevolent evil, the Black Metal bridge in the final third rearing its head between brutal blast beat passages that are so intense they might cause your teeth to fall out. It seems strange saying this but instrumental “Outro” is actually the longest cut on the record, a captivating affair that has a title which doesn’t really do it justice. Surging and seething in the shadow of intent, it broods and burns seeking venomous revenge for all that has transpired in the theatre of war, the corners of the fractured mind being pulled together like a clenched fist of rage. As with the best of records in the shorter form, this one leaves you wanting more and will soon have you so addicted you’re searching the Vyr Muk discography for that urgent thrill [7.5/10]

Track Listing

1. Shadows of Battles
2. Voices of the Void
3. Outro

“Mens Devastata” by Vyr Muk is out 8th May 2026 and is available over at bandcamp