Sivyj Yar, or Сивый Яр as they are known in Russia, have built up quite a discography since their formation in 2006. With no less than seven full-length albums preceding A Scarlet Sunset over the Horrid Abyss, they have certainly gained plenty of experience.
Since 2014, their releases have been coming out through the renowned Italian label Avantgarde, making them easily available in Europe.
Musically, Sivyj Yar can be placed somewhere between Atmospheric and Post-Black Metal, with a strong sense of melody and top-tier production. The alternating shifts between the cleaner sound of Post-Black Metal and the more aggressive Atmospheric style are executed brilliantly.
Vocalist Vladimir is most active during the faster sections, while allowing the calmer passages to let the music speak for itself.
The combination of calm musical passages and heavier sections comes through beautifully in The Deadly Fog Drags Forth, a track that also features some keyboards and almost post-hardcore-like guitars. It sometimes reminds me of …In The Woods when they first started, just different then the rest.
Some highlights of the album include the title track, A Scarlet Sunset over the Horrid Abyss, where the bass particularly stands out, and In Their Slumber, People Shall Forget Us.
A very enjoyable album to listen to—something different for a change. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking to try something new.
85/100
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