Apkas Itulia

This is one of those albums that you can’t pass up. Shambless of Bulgaria has done something really outstanding and original. Apkas Itulia grabs the listener’s attention right away from the start with great atmospheric folk instruments and chants. The flutes really compliment the war drums, as well as the strange voices and growls. Once the album goes into full swing you can tell right away that it’s going to be some awesome black folk metal. Arvels’ clean and grim vocals are fantastic, and really set the atmosphere. It was very original of him to write all of his lyrics in an ancient Elven language, making it a great addition for Summoning fans. The folk instruments are also not overused like in a lot of similar bands. The atmospheric folk and the black/death metal come together greatly.

My favorite track on the album has to be “Paus Mor Gras”. it’s a beautiful mix of piano, flute and guitar. What really highlights this song is the folk breakdowns with the fade in guitar, which I have never seen done before on a record like this. Arvels’ chants really stand out in this one, it just puts the listener in to mood to enter a dark forest and ponder all existence.

The rest of the album impacts the listener in all the same ways. Instrumental tracks like “Nen Nare Ros” and “Akramos” really bring out the Elven feel of the whole record that takes one away on a fantasy to Rivendale. Overall, this is a great album for any Summoning or black/folk metal fans, and is worth checking out.