Merva. Bardo.

Very strong – and, at the same time, not less beautiful. It seems that in Ukraine until now no so powerful albums have been released where the alternative would so frankly and qualitatively combined with our folklore roots – at least, if we speak about official releases. In the end, Merva has in its reserve seven full-fledged albums – but only "Bardo" was released officially. That is, funny though, the album can be even named the debut one... On the other hand, it is hardly possible to deny that this work has appeared so very successful exactly due to the considerable experience acquired by the team in the previous works. Anyway, "Bardo" is not just another collection of fresh pieces, but a real conceptual picture, integral and balanced. Here everything is where it should be, everything in place. Artistic tools of alternative music, expressive male vocal with a number of emotional tints, introduction into the body of the songs of singing in the authentic manner, extraordinarily appropriate sounding of folk winds – all of that creates a very saturated, literally electrified atmosphere. It is in this connection that it's nice to note that lyrics of the songs in no way yield to the music – either in energy or in the message. It is difficult to say whether reading of these lyrics is able to help a soul that is already in bardo – but for those who still remain this side of the gate truly should pay attention to lyrics of the songs. Just because it is worth reflecting not some time tomorrow but right now.