Батюшка - Литоургиiа (2015)

   As Burzum have made the first step towards the hipsterization of black metal by dissociating from the basic concept, the appearance of Batushka might represent hipster black metal at its peak. 
   Even though the whole thing might reached new heights both by dissociation and popularity by bands like Mgla, Batushka exceeded similar projects, by becoming a great hit already at their beginning. Russian Orthodox Christian blasphemy in Russian language made by a Polish band. It might be difficult to get more hipster than that. To this came an easily identifiable and unified stage look in decorative hooded orthodox priest-like vestments and schematic mask wearing - this renewal endeavor of black metal stage look was also not new anymore, but none went so far before in the details. However, the concept did work pretty well and it was surprisingly unified. Therefore their music attracted both the fans of the old school and hipster forms of black metal. "Litourgiya" didn't lack raw intensity and the church mass references and singing style created great contrast with the extreme hammering. This was basically similar to when symphonic elements were embedded into black metal, but the cultist-like touch was way more effective. The melodic and atmospheric elements also took decent role in the main composition. The balance of these features was the main key for the overwhelming success. A pretty fragile balance so to say, since in case of such complexity the question came, how the band will be able not to necessarily exceed but even to keep up with the quality of their debut? There were two possibilities: they couldn't keep up, only trying to repeat themselves and the fire they've created slowly fades away; or they changing style and the whole concept gets dumped. However, a third unexpected thing happened, that's probably the worst possible outcome: by disagreements over financials and copyrights between the band members the band split into two under the same name and both bands claimed to be the real Batushka. The long lasted drama between them in social media inspired other, non-related musicians to create projects under the same name to make fun of the whole situation, therefore 4 other Batushkas showed up. In total, the new height of the genre became a new depth the same time, that also illustrates well how black metal bands who are often claiming to be the most underground, evidently keep losing their underground status with ease and have to face with the most common issues of mainstream bands. Dissociating from the band's history, "Litourgiya" is a quite enjoyable album and compatible with wider metal audiences.