Patriarkh Unveils "ВЕРШАЛИН II" from Upcoming Album "ПРОРОК ИЛИЯ", Announces Polish Tour with SINFONIA ORTHODOXIA
On December 11, 2024, Polish black metal icons Patriarkh, formerly known as Batushka, released their latest single "ВЕРШАЛИН II" (Lat. WIERSZALIN II) from their upcoming conceptual album "ПРОРОК ИЛИЯ" (Lat. PROROK ILJA), set to launch on January 3, 2025, via Napalm Records. This release marks a significant evolution in the band's sound and vision.
"ВЕРШАЛИН II" showcases Patriarkh's signature blend of Orthodox sacredness with black and doom metal elements, enhanced by folk instruments and captivating choirs5. The track explores themes of revelation, highlighting the Mother of God's role and the prophet's mission. Bartłomiej "Варфоломей" Krysiuk, the band's mastermind and lead vocalist, oversaw the production, with mixing and mastering handled by Wojciech Wiesławski at Hertz Studio.
The album "ПРОРОК ИЛИЯ" delves into the true story of Eliasz Klimowicz, the self-proclaimed Prophet Ilja, set in the 1930s and 40s in Podlasie, Poland. It represents a new chapter for Patriarkh, featuring a diverse range of musical elements including folk, neo dark folk, and even film music influences.
To promote the album, Patriarkh has announced a series of tour dates in Poland, kicking off with a special SINFONIA ORTHODOXIA performance featuring a symphonic orchestra and male choir on January 3, 2025, in Łódź. This event offers fans a unique VIP experience, including a meet-and-greet with the band and exclusive merchandise.
