“Czerń Północy”, which may translate to “The Blackness Of The North”, is a split between the Polish bands GAROTA and SCRÜDA. This split explores the raw and intense realms of both Thrash and Black Metal in the perfect temperature. Running at just under 22 minutes, this release delivers in my opinion a very warm experience that represents the Polish scene in both its atmosphere and approach. The two bands, while sharing a common interest, each bring their own unique take to the split. GAROTA opens the split with a ferocious assault that is fucking killer. They sound very classic, but still combined with a more modern taste. From the opening track, GAROTA grabs you by the throat with the right intensity. Their style is pure Thrash Metal evaporating later in Black Metal, fast, furious and deeply ritualistic. The vocals seem to be echoing the torment and wrath, which is an aspect that I’m looking for all the time in extreme Metal. Their songs, sung in Polish, dive deep into themes of darkness, pagan rituals and the occult, lending a strong sense of place and tradition to their roots. On the other side, SCRÜDA brings a different flavor to the split. Their approach to Black Metal is more atmospheric and brooding, while still rounding the Thrash Metal aura, with different tempos and (perhaps) a much darker ambiance. Where GAROTA is more about that trashy vibe, SCRÜDA showcases a more suffocating mood of despair. For me “Czerń Północy” fits seamlessly within the dark, raw tradition of that underground Metal scene that Poland is known for. We all know that bands from this scene tend to prioritize atmosphere and authenticity over commercial appeal, and both GAROTA and SCRÜDA stay true to this ethos. GAROTA represents the more straightforward, brutal side of the spectrum, while SCRÜDA embraces a more sorrowful tone, proving that the scene is as varied as it is rich in tradition. In conclusion, “Czerń Północy” is a captivating split that showcases two different approaches to Thrash / Black Metal the best possible way. Whether you are drawn to the force of GAROTA or the creeping despair of SCRÜDA, there’s something here for everyone. The split is a fine example of the strength and depth of the Polish underground Metal scene, and it is here for anyone looking to dive deeper into the darker sides of extreme Metal. Released by Godz Ov War Productions, on digital and CD formats, I strongly recommend this split. www.facebook.com/garotapoland, www.facebook.com/scrudabarbarians, www.facebook.com/godzovwarproductions