Hey everyone! Sean here at the Black Metal Archives, where we explore the dark and atmospheric realms of metal. Today, I’m super excited to talk about an album titled Sacrifice, from the band Olhava. This band blew me away when I first discovered them and I can’t wait to share my thoughts with you!
Olhava is a Russian duo hailing from Saint Petersburg, has been a prominent force in the atmospheric black metal scene since their inception in 2016. Their sixth album, “Sacrifice,” released on January 26, 2024, under Avantgarde Music, continues their exploration of ambient and post-black metal soundscapes.
“Sacrifice” is an ambitious work, spanning approximately 86 minutes and comprising eight tracks. The album alternates between four expansive compositions and four ambient interludes titled “Ageless River I-IV,” which serve to both break up and stitch together the main canvases.
The album opens with “Forever with You,” setting a melancholic tone with its immersive soundscapes. “I See Myself in Your Eyes,” the longest track at 17 minutes, is a highlight, shifting through moods with delicate tremolos and synth work, ebbing and flowing alongside drums that move between deft cymbal work and pounding percussive rhythms.
Olhava’s instrumentation is characterized by layered guitars, immersive synths, and versatile drumming. Guitarist Andrey Novozhilov employs a range of effects to create rich, textured soundscapes, while drummer Timur Yusupov’s performance adds depth and dynamism, moving from energetic blast beats to subtle rhythmic shifts.
In terms of production, “Sacrifice” feels light and organic, making it a relatively easy listen despite its length.
The album’s atmosphere is further enriched by the use of synths and effervescent-yet-melancholic shimmering blackened fragility, which never fails to move the listener.
While the album has been praised for its immersive atmosphere and emotive soundscapes, some critics note that its extensive runtime and the similarity between tracks can make it challenging to distinguish individual songs, potentially leading to a sense of monotony.
Overall, “Sacrifice” stands as a testament to Olhava’s dedication to their craft, offering a richly textured and atmospheric journey that will resonate with fans of ambient and post-black metal.
You can explore “Sacrifice” further on Olhava’s Bandcamp page!
