Bartlomiej's Batushka (Poland): “Hospodi”

After Krysztof in May 2019 released his first album as Batushka after the schism from his former bandmate in the original Batushka, now also Bartlomiej, on July 12, 2019 released his first album as Batushka. In this paradoxical situation in which two bands use the same name and the same logo, a final decision from the court on which of the two has the rights on the moniker has not arrived yet. It is Krysztof's version of the band, though, that is considered the real one by the fans. In actual fact, Bartlomie’sj album Hospodi is very different from Liturgiya, it does not have the same harshness, it is far more melodic, and in some moments it even shows black'n roll influences, as in the beginning of “Wieczernia” and “Tretij czas”. However, there are also powerful songs such as “Powieczerje” and “Utrenia”. I would say that if Krysztof continues the violent and aggressive aspect of the original Batushka, Bartlomiej continues the solemn aspect. Almost every song contains or begins with sounds or choirs of masses and religious solemnities that make the Hospodi album a little slow and less straight to the point. That does not mean that Hospodi is bad; on the contrary, it is a great and solid album that you should listen to, so that you can then decide which of the two bands is the real Batushka in your opinion. I point out that Hospodi ends with a song entitled “Liturgiya”. A coincidence?
 
Notes:
Hospodi was released on July 12, 2019 through Metal Blade.
 
Personnel:
Bartlomiej: vocals
Paweł Jaroszewicz: drums
Other staff:
Artur Rumiński: songwriting
 
Text by Herjann
herjann@unholyblackmetal.com