Best Ukrainian Folk Metal Band: Motanka
Are you a fan of Folk Metal? Or maybe you are not sure what this sub-genre is to begin with? No worries, today I’m introducing you to one of the most original, interesting and authentic folk metal bands in the word. The band is called Motanka. It is from Ukraine and has released a single album so far.
But what an album it is. An absolute masterpiece. I discovered the band when surfing through fresh metal songs a couple years ago, because I desperately wanted to listen to something new. Apparently the gods of music heard me and sent me this band. Now I’m more than happy to share this hidden metal gem with others.
Motanka Band: Bio, Music, Facts
Motanka is a band from Lutsk, Ukraine, formed in 2015 by four musicians: Viktor Zhalnin (vocals, dulcimer, keyboard), Anatolii Zhalnin (guitar), Sergii Khodorchuk (bass guitar, ocarina), and Dmytro Diachenko (drums, throat singing). So far they have released one full studio self-titled album Motanka (2019).
Motanka took second place at the W:OMetal Battle 2018 at Wacken Open Air. Later that year they signed with the metal label Napalm Records.
The name “Motanka” comes from a type of rag doll which often served as an amulet in Ukraine, Poland and Belarus. It has roots in ancient Slavic folk traditions, and is associated with magic rituals.
For the latest news about the band see their socials.
Music Style of Motanka
Their music is sometimes called “mystic metal.” But if we step away from the mysticism it’s a perfect example of the finest folk metal with a lot of progressive elements.
Motanka successfully blends traditional Ukrainian instruments like the dulcimer and ocarina with pure metal sound. It’s captivating and unique. A truly powerful sound whether you are listening to the studio version or a live performance.
What Makes Motanka Great?
The band has a unique style and I’m yet to find a similar band with the same energy. They have this undeniable authenticity. Also Motanka adds elements of Ukrainian traditional instruments to create a beautiful version of powerful folk metal sound. It can be heavy, but it can be played on acoustic instruments just as well.
It’s a sea of carefully composed sound waves. One moment you are slowly drifting on calm tunes of folk instruments. And the next moment you are hit with a metal blast. Their sound has some Tool and Dead Can Dance vibes.
Best Song by Motanka
The band has released only a single album so far. But it is a superb album, to say the least. The songs are so well composed and the sound is so fresh. There are several candidates for the best song. In my playlist the 1st place goes to the one called “Bosymy Nizhkamy“, which can be translated as “Barefoot“.
There’s also an official video for the track called “Verba”, you can check it here. This song tells the story of the The Holodomor. A deep composition worth checking for sure.
If you are interested in finding more Ukrainian groups, this post TOP 10 Songs by Ukrainian Bands is for you.
