Ceasul aducerii-aminte

Definitely a triumph of metal music on Romanian soil, Bucovina's debut album brings a refreshing tinge to a local scene that has been quite stagnant for a great number of years. Intricate melodies blended with lightning speed drumming and heartfelt lyrics sung with true spirit make this release a landmark in what is hopefully just the beginning of this young band's career!

Straight off, the epic feel of the album is tightly announced through the opening track 'Valea Plangerii' (loosely translated as 'Valley Of The Cries'), a daunting instrumental piece. The proud homeland from which the band takes its name is presented in all its majesty with the help of 'Sunt Munti Si Paduri', 'Tara De Dincolo De Varfuri De Brazi' and, what is easily Bucovina's most well-known song, 'Luna Peste Varfuri'. The bass lines on the latter song are atypical for the genre creating an intricate flow which is quite unique in viking metal.Hats off to Tudor Beks. 'Strasnic Neamul Meu', my favorite song off the album, excellently employs the use of a catchy chorus.

Choirs 'Aah's' are often used on the disc as well in order to great effect, along with occasional rasp vocals, while most of the lyrics are sung with clear vocals. Honorable mentions go to 'Napraznica Goana' for its incredible drumming; a track which you realize is an instrumental only once it's over, all the while waiting for deeply sung lyrics.

Keeping true to their roots, Bucovina also give a mighty hail back to Norway with the song 'Vinterdoden'. While Bucovina's version couldn't be any different than the original Helheim song (instrumental-wise) the lyrics are sung to the letter, in harsh vocals. Also the harmonic guitar parts on several songs, most notably 'Sunt Munti Si Paduri' are obviously a nod to their Immortal influences.

The production of the album is, of course, not incredible, but deeply satisfying especially given the history of Lupii Daciei's releases having low-production. My only reason for not giving the release a full 100 is its length, barely exceeding 30 minutes.

That having been said, i hope to hear much more from the band, especially after having had the privilege of seeing them perform the entire album live! A great bunch of fellows, that have to potential to go a long way.