It’s no secret that reviewing a Ukrainian band would not go without a mention of the dangerous situation said band’s homeland is facing at this moment in history. However, despite the ongoing slaughter of innocents, the creative drive of Ukraine has not been severely damaged – or as in the case of this band – hijacked by anti-Russian propaganda. Despite the hatred this nation can feel for its invaders, its unique creative drive should remain its own way.

And said drive is still going in its own weird and wonderful way thanks to bands like They Came From Visions, a quirky project who have just unleashed their second studio outing: The Twilight Robes.

As well as giving the black metal world many decent regular BM acts, Ukraine has also berthed a good few post black metal troops like White Ward. They Came From Visions, however, seem to utilise both the primitive and the experimental vibes of both ends of the black metal spectrum. From the start of the first track the audible onslaught kicks in and you know this band means business.

As it progresses, this album gives out a fair few progressive chords and key changes that blend into the vicious yet delightful veneer that post black metal is know for. I would not call They Came From Visions a post band, but they have made good use of all the right elements that will make their songs reach across borders and please those who love the old school and the bands who are not scared of experimenting or adding in notable licks and dissonance that takes things to a new level of darkness.

Overall, this is a 45 minute piece of Ukrainian black metal which symbolises how a band have found their feet and progressed well since their impressive debut four years back. It seems that despite being shrouded in their fair share of mystery and having to live through such a dangerous time, these musicians have not let their creative fires burn out and are carrying on as usual, which could be interpreted as on of the best ways to resist an oppressor.

I will take this opportunity to say I have my reservations about the Ukrainian black metal scene, but acts like They Came From Visions are what keep it going for those who love black metal but hate sketchiness from bands. Therefore, a pleasing piece that will sit well in a collection that celebrates the Eastern scene of the European black metal realm.

(7.5/10 Demitri Levantis)

https://www.facebook.com/theycamefromvisions

https://theycamefromvisions.bandcamp.com/album/the-twilight-robes