As the leading member of Ukranian bands Drudkh, Hate Forest, and Blood Of Kingu, Roman Saenko is easily one of the hardest working individuals in extreme metal, averaging two to three releases per year over these various projects. Most interesting is the diversity displayed within the man's vast repertoire, with each respective act being completely unique in its own right. The most recognized of these projects is, without a doubt, Drudkh (though, Hate Forest did receive its fair share of headlines for its overt National Socialist ideals). Over the course of seven years, Drudkh has racked up a rather formidable catalogue, culminating in last year's Microcosmos - a beautiful sojourn through the vast and dark expanse of universes unknown. The music presented on Microcosmos was as prodigious as its brilliant narrative scope, combining equal amounts of melodic black metal and Eastern European folk. Here we are a year later, and, like clockwork, presented with a fresh new platter of Drudkh, this time entitled Handful Of Stars. One would assume, given the overarching theme of cosmological imagery and titles, that the material found on Handful Of Stars would rest comfortably amongst the rest of the band's catalogue. Well, it's funny how much change a year can bring about. Often times, change is forced by either: outside influences acting in a nefarious or self-serving manner, or an overwhelming need to express oneself in an honest and completely genuine fashion. Roman has opted for the latter, turning in an album unlike anything the band has ever done. First, and perhaps most noticeable, is the absence of the previously mentioned folk. In its place are compositions doused in depressive rock à la Katatonia, with the occasional foray into post-metal territory, not unlike the incredible Alcest. These elements might be new to the band, but Roman has taken care to incorporate them into a familiar foundation, utilizing existing traditions and conventions as mere underpinnings for something far more relevant and exciting. Songs such as 'Downfall Of The Epoch' and 'Towards The Light' engage the listener with emotionally evocative and sophisticated soundscapes. Chalk Handful Of Stars up as another bold and innovative release for a man unafraid to explore the microcosmos within.
