Ukrainian band Polyvoda is making waves with their evocative debut album, ‘Pilgrims Never Come Back’, released just a few days ago. The band has already captured hearts with their blend of R&B, neo-soul, hip-hop, and jazz, evident in early releases like ‘Bonfire’, ‘Homeless‘, and ‘Queens’, but now, their full-length album delivers a unique listening experience that hints at even more potential.
A 30-minute release broken down into eight enchanting songs, the album showcases their diverse musical talents. Complex rhythms, evocative melodies, and thoughtful lyrics combine to form a tapestry of sound that's as intriguing as it is satisfying. Yet, Polyvoda leaves us yearning for more, proving themselves masters of the musical cliffhanger.
The album's title track offers a key to understanding the band's artistic mission. "I just started going, I've been knocking on these doors, so something's gonna open," the enigmatic vocalist sings. It’s a testament to Polyvoda's ambition; they're pilgrims on a musical quest, boldly seeking paths less travelled. Featuring four new tracks alongside previously released singles ‘Bonfire’, ‘Homeless’, ‘Queens’, and ‘Drunken Road’, creating an expressive, and evolving journey that will engage fans both new and old.
Polyvoda isn't aiming to conquer foreign shores, but the parallel is clear. They create music that transcends borders and genres – it's experimental, daring, and undeniably artistic. They refuse to be confined, forging their own space in the musical landscape.
Of course, this is just one lens through which to view the album. Polyvoda's co-founder Denys Levchenko hints at deeper, more personal meanings. "Every rehearsal was a challenge to our very existence, often unfolding within the confines of bomb shelters," he shares. The weight of war and displacement seeps into the music. "We dedicate this album to all those forced to flee from war, fear, and themselves... remember, pilgrims never come back!"
‘Pilgrims Never Come Back’ is more than a debut; it's a statement of resilience and a promise of continuous artistic exploration. Polyvoda, with their enigmatic sound and courageous spirit, has marked themselves as a band to watch
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