Poland has a long list of excellent Metal bands. I remember how amazed I was when listening to some old Polish bands back in the day. And PROFECI doesn’t fall too far away from that excellency, offering a first rate collection of songs in “Ubóstwo”, their third album. Sure, there are some influences from countrymates such as BEHEMOTH and MGLA but also some nuances from older bands such as CHRIST AGONY and BETRAYER. So yes, they do have an undeniable sound, but luckily, PROFECI mixes in enough of their own style to keep things interesting. This album has a lot of different things going on, crafted in an elegant way. Extremely fast paced songs work nicely along slower numbers that also include clean and even Folk tinged segments. And this is the main feature that makes this an absorbing album. One cannot tell what the band will throw at you next. Nieboga’s drum work is meticulous. And I am not referring to the technical side of it, but the tasteful choices he makes when providing the rhythm parts to the songs. Mikis’ bass guitar shines through the album with a solid performance, bringing forth a huge bottom end and multiple variations. Guitarists Gustaw and Piolun have crafted elaborated riffs and guitar parts, using open chords, melodies and harmonies that enhance the listening experience. They use a heavy guitar tone that stays far away from the usual shrill found in this style. Last but not least, Piolun’s vocals provide even more contrasts. All these factors are blended in a top notch production. The sound is massive but not harsh or raspy. Every instrument is sharply placed in the mix. My only complaint here (as usual) is the mastering. It is a bit too pushed for my taste and it affects the dynamics. All in all, “Ubóstwo” is another fine Black Metal album that adheres to the Polish legacy of high quality extreme music. Follow the band at www.facebook.com/profeci.band and get their album from their label www.facebook.com/godzovwar