PATRIARKH Streams Overtly Religious New Single "ВЕРШАЛИН IV"

Patriarkh – the band formerly known as Batushka fronted by Bartłomiej "Варфоломей" Krysiuk – will release their first album under the new name ПРОРОК ИЛИЯ (PROROK ILJA) on January 3. Patriarkh is now streaming the second single "ВЕРШАЛИН IV" ("WIERSZALIN IV") featuring some additional, liturgical vocals from Eliza Sacharczuk. It's also pretty interesting that Patriarkh's comment on the song seems to reveal that the band is indeed religious, breaking from their usual "is it blasphemous? Is it worship music?" mystery.

"This is the most Oriental-sounding song on our new album," wrote Patriarkh. "The beautiful monody that runs throughout the entire piece is deeply influenced by Greek and Romanian traditions, which are integral to Orthodoxy. In our new music, we aim to showcase different aspects of Orthodoxy. Just as the Prophet Ilja journeyed to Kronsztadt, we traveled far for musical inspiration to create a psalm in honor of the New Jerusalem that our prophet was building.

"This song features our long-time singing teacher, Eliza Sacharczuk. We have been collaborating with her since 2016, continuously improving our singing skills through lessons and consultations. Our choice was intentional; Eliza has a truly unique voice. Listen and see for yourself!"

Pre-orders for ПРОРОК ИЛИЯ are available here.