heavy-metal-darkness: Tenebris | Kochanowski

Thursday, November 20, 2025

Tenebris | Kochanowski | Pagan Records

Release Date: 7 November 2025

Format: LP/CD

Genre: Progressive Metal

Country: Poland

Formed in Łódź in 1991, Tenebris has spent over three decades carving their place in Polish metal. Originally a death metal outfit, their music has evolved through progressive and jazz influences while retaining a distinct voice. Their catalog includes “The Odious Progress”, “Only Fearless Dreams”, “Catafalque-Comet”, “Melting”, “Diib”, “Alpha Orionis”, “Legendarna”, and “30 Years Of Solitude”. Known for exploring literary themes and integrating national cultural elements, Tenebris has remained a cult favorite in Poland and beyond.

“Kochanowski” carries the weight of years of thought and evolution. Tenebris anchors this album firmly in Polish literary tradition, pulling lines from Jan Kochanowski, Juliusz Słowacki, Adam Mickiewicz, and Olga Jackowska. The lyrics are dense with historical and poetic references, giving the album a unique identity that sets it apart from standard metal releases.

The sound balances aggression with a cerebral edge. Guitar lines often clash and intertwine, drums drive the songs forward with precision, and the occasional clarinet and guest vocals add unexpected color. There’s a careful pacing that allows each idea space to develop, with songs like “Popiel” and “Perunowy” drawing on older works to create something immersive, while “Szmaragdowy Somnabulik” benefits from subtle, almost jazzy textures.

Vocals shift between growls, chants, and melodic passages, giving the album a layered character. The production keeps the different elements clear without flattening the dynamic range, and the interplay between the core lineup and guest musicians brings moments of variety. Some sections feel dense, demanding attention, and the literary weight of the material sometimes overwhelms the musical flow. Still, there’s a commitment to crafting each song carefully, and the album presents a coherent, thoughtful statement.

“Kochanowski” is not immediately catchy, it’s deliberate, with ideas that unfold gradually and require repeated listens to fully appreciate. For listeners interested in a Polish metal band that blends literature, history, and diverse musical textures, it’s a compelling listen, though it may test patience at times.

Score: 7.0