Dymna Lotva releases Vyraj following political exile

The Belarusian black metal band Dymna Lotva has released their second studio album, titled Vyraj. The band’s history is marked by political displacement; core members Katsiaryna “Nokt Aeon” Mankevich and Jauhien Charkasau fled Belarus following criticism of the regime of Aleksandr Lukashenko. After moving to Ukraine and later reuniting in Poland, the group now operates out of Warsaw.

The album Vyraj, named after a mythical place where birds winter and souls find rest, incorporates themes of forced emigration and melancholy. Musically, the work blends black, doom, and post-metal with traditional folk elements, utilizing keyboards and flutes to create atmosphere. The album features guest vocals from Aaron Stainthorpe of My Dying Bride on the track “The Boat of Despair.”