I have already spoken of GAROTA, this Polish Black / Thrash Metal band. This review is about their second album, “Z Mieczem Na Gwiazdy” (“With A Sword To The Stars”), kind of follow-up to their 2022 release “Czarne Wizje” and 2024’s “Czerń Północy” EP (split with SCRÜDA). Picking up where they left off, GAROTA continues to harness the raw power and malevolent energy that’s become their signature. With seven tracks that exude blackened Thrash intensity, “Z Mieczem Na Gwiazdy” delivers a ferocious sense, locking in the band’s place in the Polish underground scene. The opening track, ‘Z Mieczem Na Gwiazdy Cz. 1’, immediately pulls you into their chaotic world and immediately describes the album as a total, as a concept. The combination of the Thrash elements and the Black Metal atmosphere has a powerful effect. It’s a bestial attack from start to finish, but the real beauty lies in the way GAROTA balances brutality with bursts of speed and atmosphere. The band is pushing themselves to the edge of madness while still keeping you fully engaged, because, in fact, I’ve really come to feel connected to GAROTA’s sound. Their music oozes with energy, aggression and that vibe of a band who truly lives for this style. It’s got that DIY, underground feel that speaks volumes about their vision. “Z Mieczem Na Gwiazdy” isn’t just a solid Black / Thrash album, it is a statement, a battle, a victory. The title, which translates to “With A Sword To The Stars,” seems fitting as GAROTA raises the sword to the heavens, ready to bring chaos to every corner of the sky. It’s an anthem for the misfits, the restless souls and the warriors of Metal. In the context of the Polish Black / Thrash scene, this album is both a continuation and an evolution. Very accurate and logical in my opinion. They’re definitely a band to be taken seriously. So, if you are into Polish Metal and the international Black / Thrash scene in general, GAROTA’s “Z Mieczem Na Gwiazdy” is an album to listen to. It’s violent, it’s fast and it’s damn good! The connection to their music, their style and their vibe is something that just feels right. And for a band that’s still pushing forward, I can’t wait to see what they do next. More information you will find here: www.facebook.com/garotapoland, www.facebook.com/godzovwarproductions