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Poland's Hellveto have been around since the mid-90s and have released a whopping 14 full-length albums since their debut Autumnal Night in 2002. Prolific, thy name is Hellveto. 2010's Wiara, nadzieja..., potepienie is my first go-round with the band's creepy, hypnotic take on Black Metal

Symphonic Blackened Pagan Metal might be how I would describe what you'll hear on Wiara, nadzieja..., potepienie (Polish for Faith, hope..., damnation, according to the record label's website). Lone member LON has a deep, guttural rasp and surrounds it with buzzy guitars and drums, but also a multitude of strings, keys and folk instruments, such as bells. The juxtaposition of sounds between the guitars and bells on "Dramatu won," the opening track, is an indication of what you're in for as the album progresses. I like the fact that LON launched right into the first song, dispensing with any unnecessary instrumental intro. LON creates an atmosphere of pervasive gloom and on that point the album succeeds admirably.

The album has some drawbacks. The guitars lack punch, a crucial element in Black Metal. They don't have to dominate, but they should step up and demand to be noticed occasionally. The vocals are mixed very low and the effects on them created a sound that is a little too far away. The songs themselves seem content to circle around the same chords without really progressing toward any culmination. I kept asking myself "where is this going?"

Personally, Wiara, nadzieja..., potepienie didn't do much for me. To be fair, it is clear LON takes his music seriously and does an excellent job NOT sounding like everyone else. If depressive, symphonic Black Metal with some unique twists sounds good to you; check out Wiara, nadzieja..., potepienie. You won't be disappointed.