Dark Essence Records is a Norwegian label specializing in Black-Extreme genres of Metal, being the label of famous band as SHINING (Sweden), TAAKE and HELHEIM. Whilst KRAKÓW can't boast about being that famous (yet), it nevertheless may be worthwhile to see what they produce. In my opinion this avant-garde/experimental movement in Norway is especially worth attention, (let's just look at the ARCTURUS or IHSHAN), so here we have "GENESIS", a 13 minutes long EP right from the Bergen scene, released on the 7th of August, and which consists of 4 songs that "didn't fit" into their full album called "Amaran".

It starts with the flagship "Genesis", showcasing lightly distorted dissonant followed by rhythmic drumming and whispered harsh vocals: a pretty constant track. The second track is actually more interesting, where the major role in the first half of the song is played clean, using hazy vocals. During the second part, the drumming accelerates a little, followed by guitar melodies. On the beginning of "Conjuring", distorted guitars and alternating clean and harsh vocals welcomes us. Later on, they are replaced by a melody woven by both clean and distorted guitars. My favourite track is the last one called "Demise"; groove and a little grunge flavours the guitars, whilst the roaring voice made a great impression on me. Pretty similar to "Genesis" but heavier and more direct.

KRAKÓW is one of these hipster projects that actually aren't contrived. Nicely composed songs with pleasing melody with following clean and negating harsh voices. This mixture is especially visible (hearable? Doesn't matter) in "Conjuring". The band described this EP as more direct and heavy part of the "AMARAN", and indeed, there are some vivid moments, yet I still consider this as a pretty chill record. You won't fall asleep for sure. The interesting style and original tone kept me intrigued from beginning to the end, which came pretty fast. I guess I have to check out their album, to have more clear view about their music. Yes, this means I like it pretty much. You'll like it too, especially if you're into bands like ISIS or IHSHAN.